Now that is SIMPLE

 

October 15, 2024

 

Psalm 116:6

The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.

 

Hebrews 12:1a

“Let us strip off every weight that slows us down …”

I read recently an excerpt from the Wall Street Journal that observed the following:

 “There is no denying that as a society, we often over-complicate our lives. We grow eager to own the newest and best possessions, such as our phones, cars or clothes. We pile our schedules and trap ourselves in chaos, that we forget the value and freedom found in simplicity.”

I guess what caught my attention was the emphasis on the benefits or value of simplifying life. Now, in Christian circles the idea of an uncomplicated life has often been lifted as of great importance. In fact, many Christian authors refer to the “Spiritual Discipline of Simplicity.”  They will remind us that we live in a world filled with distractions and that the Bible calls us to live a life of simplicity, focusing on God, dropping unnecessary burdens, and trusting in His provision. You see simplicity is not just about owning fewer possessions, but about seeking what matters most: God’s kingdom and righteousness.

Simplicity as a spiritual practice involves letting go of unnecessary things and instead, receiving freedom and enjoyment in God. Simplicity creates “margins”, or put another way, space and openness in our lives. 

I like how Brooklyn Cox describes simplicity as eating a meal. “In today’s culture, we want quick satisfaction, so we scarf our food down on the car ride to our next activity. Practicing simplicity is the opposite — it allows us time to sit at the table and really taste the goodness of God.”  Makes you think, doesn’t it? About our life structure and demands and where we place emphasis. I wonder how many of us, make space to sit and “taste and see that the Lord is good”? (Psalm 34:8)

Adele Calhoun, in Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us, says that practicing simplicity may produce what she calls “God-given Fruit.” Like some of the following:

·         Uncluttered life

·         Clear mind

·         Space to love and serve God

·         Simple, honest speech

·         Freedom from jealousy/entitlement

·         Ability to relinquish control

·         Grateful heart

Maybe its just me, but those seem like some wonderful outcomes from “making Space” to sit at table and enjoy God’s goodness.

Matthew 6:33 records Jesus saying "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need." In Luke 12:15 Jesus said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own."

Jesus calls us to strip away "worldly" ambitions and desires to follow Him wholeheartedly. The journey toward simplicity begins with surrender, leaving behind the things that complicate our faith and obedience. Jesus’ example teaches us that following Him involves trusting in God’s provision and prioritizing spiritual treasures over earthly ones.

I have been learning, I would imagine many of you have too, that life becomes much simpler when our top priority is Jesus. “Jesus Only!” rather than entangling ourselves in life’s turmoil, let us practice letting go and embracing simplicity. It is then that we can better enjoy life’s daily pleasures and be formed further into the image of Christ.