Simplify

“…God is not a God of disorder but of peace…”

1 Corinthians 14:33

“But godliness with contentment is a great gain.
For we brought nothing into the world,
and we can take nothing out.”

1 Timothy 6:6-7

Too many things complicate our space.
Too many busy activities take the energy we could use for more rewarding adventures.
Complicated meals with too many ingredients can make dinnertime a chore.
A cluttered space makes finding what we need more difficult.

A single flower in a vase can be just as beautiful as a large bouquet.
Summer salads and cool drinks are refreshing on a hot day.
A picnic in the backyard or at a park can be more fun than a four course dinner.
It’s easier to find your favorite shirt in a tidy closet, with only the clothes you love and wear.

Simplifying doesn’t mean bare bones and basics. It means having and doing what you love without an overwhelming amount of stuff getting in the way. You can have your favorite decorations and collectibles. It may be that you choose to display only a few at a time in a place of honor.

Simplifying routines allows you to create habits you can complete in a timely manner. Overcomplicating things takes away our peace and energy.

The Lord wants us to live with order and contentment. He doesn’t want His children to strive for the things of this world that we will leave behind. We can ask for His help in finding the areas of our lives we need to simplify so we can spend more time on the activities which will have an eternal impact on ourselves and those we love.

PRAYER: Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your loving guidance. Please help us to simplify our lives so that we can find time to live our lives with more purpose and less clutter.
In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: Where do you feel overwhelmed or burdened from too many activities or possessions? How can you simplify one area this week? Write your ideas here and ask the Lord to help you follow through.