There is a backlash of sorts going on around the world against greed and excess. The simple living or slow living movement has come out of the desire to simplify life by reducing commitments, things, and clutter in order to intentionally experience a better quality of life. However, it does miss the boat, so to speak, on the most intimate and important level. It is me-focused instead of God-focused.
For the believer, the Spiritual Discipline of Simplicity changes the focus and sets all things right…
Simplicity is the inward reality of single-hearted
focus upon God and his kingdom,
which results in an outward lifestyle of modesty,
openness, and unpretentiousness and which disciplines
our hunger for status, glamour, and luxury.
– Richard Foster
Admittedly, the Spiritual Discipline of Simplicity is difficult because it is completely counter-cultural, at least in America. Our culture thrives on greed and fear which are the polar opposite of Simplicity. It takes an intentional effort to learn how to live simply and is an important component of Christ-Centered Slow Living. Simplicity must start in the heart and grow by the Holy Spirit outward into every area of our lives. It must be built on prayer and contentment. It must include a biblical view of the beauty of work.
You may be tempted to think that just because you don’t spend a lot of money and are faithful to saving, you are practicing simplicity. Regrettably, hoarding money can be just as much a problem as being a spendthrift in the pursuit of simplicity. The Bible is clear on this, our security can never be found in money, only in the loving arms of our Savior. Our relationship with God is what brings our minds, hearts, and bodies into the Spiritual Discipline of Simplicity.
At this point you may be asking yourself, how does one practice this critical spiritual discipline?
There is only one way and that is to seek the Kingdom of God in every area of our lives. When we do that we begin to experience the peace of God that passes all understanding and our lives are miraculously transformed into one of simplicity. It is important to remember that this is a predominantly interior gift.
The Spiritual Discipline of Simplicity
Luke 12:15-21
And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
Luke 6:29-30
To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
GO DEEPER
YOUR TURN…
Comment below, how do you live the discipline of Simplicity in your life?
Blessings,
This is just what I needed to hear, permission to quit busy!
You just made my day, Debbie! Thank you for taking the time to comment!
[…] Simplicity must flow from the heart, mind, body, and soul outward. It must start with Christ renewing our mind with the truth of His words. It can’t take place otherwise. No way…No how. […]
“Embracing the spiritual discipline of simplicity is truly transformative. Your post beautifully highlights the importance of decluttering our lives to make room for deeper connections. If you’re interested in exploring more spiritual disciplines and delving into the wisdom of the Bible, I invite you to check out this YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@treasureineveryverse69/videos. This dive into the scriptures to find timeless lessons that guide us towards a more meaningful and simplified life. Let’s embark on this journey of spiritual growth together! 🌿📖 #BibleTeaching #SimplicityInFaith #SpiritualDisciplines”
Thank you so much, Ava! I will be sure to check this out!