Self-control
By Ruth Jarman
Self-control is possibly the most important ecological virtue. To save God's creation from either possible or certain catastrophe, humanity needs to exert self-control. We need to restrain ourselves like we have never done before.
Whether the human race will in the next 10-15 years demonstrate the sort of self-control required, God only knows, but I believe that He is calling each one of us to take our part in the jigsaw of planetary salvation by exerting self-control in our own lives.
After the Christmas excesses which have taken their toll on the health of the earth, our bank-balances and our bodies, why not make some New Year resolutions that will readdress all three at the same time?

Take back control!
- Control your car! Cancel your gym membership and resolve instead to walk or cycle everywhere you can.
- Control your carnivorous tendencies! Both our bodies and the earth would be much healthier if we all ate less meat. Replace mince with lentils, sultanas, cumin and chilli. Buy vegetarian sausages and bean burgers.
- Control your own temperature! Make sure you are wearing three layers before you turn on the heating.