What people spend money on tells us a lot about their priorities. Let’s take a look at some of the things Gen Z and Millennial spenders find important.
Watch the following video with your class and then discuss the questions that follow [4:37]: Why Gen Z and millennials are driving spending at discount stores
- Did any of the information in the video surprise you? (Answers will vary.)
Although much of the Gen Z workforce is just starting out and not likely making large amounts of money, they still want the ability to purchase fun items or spend money on temporary enjoyment, such as fashionable clothing. We saw this in the video as we learned how Gen Z and Millennials seek out certain discount stores like T.J. Maxx because they offer high-end brands and items for an affordable price.
- How would you define the word “idol”? Could the desire to wear fashionable clothes, purchase high-end items, or have enough money for fund spending be placed in the category of “idolatry”? (An idol is an “object of worship” or any person or thing that is greatly admired or revered. Given this definition, it seems clear that anything we obsess over or put higher than God can become an idol. People can spend money on fun things without it being an idol, but if the spending or items because something to obsess over, then they could be considered idols.)
- Why is it so easy to place more emphasis on material possessions than things with lasting value? (Material possessions feel concrete and provide immediate gratification; spiritual values are abstract and harder to quantify. Also, identity and acceptance is often wrapped in activities, clothing, and appearance.)
It’s not a sin to own a trendy electronic gadget or buy a name-brand t-shirt. But God does want us to focus our spiritual worship on Him alone. We’ll discover today that idolatry transcends time and place. It seems to be built into the human condition.