Simplicity

The Abundant Life: Riches money can’t buy…

The abundant life seeks to simplify not complicate.

2 Corinthians 11:3 tells us to guard against being distracted from the “simplicity which is in Christ.”  This is something to think about because we live in a world full of religious complexity. Under the guise of Christianity, we can find ourselves immersed in programs, methods, and procedures designed to occupy our time and attention, but not satisfy our need for Jesus.

In fact, Paul told the Corinthians that his words were not “persuasive words of human wisdom” but rather, he preached the simple message of “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5) So the message of Jesus is not as complicated as people try to make it.

I think this can describe not only religion but almost every aspect of our daily lives. The world has created so many options it puts our brains on overload. Easy decisions have become more complicated. Most societal options were created to make life easier, but that is not always the case. Sometimes too many options can leave us confused and make it difficult to make decisions.

Plus, we live in a world of discontent because we are enticed into wanting more, more, more of everything. We think bigger is better and expensive is best. Basic needs such as food, shelter, transportation, and clothing have segued into status symbols. Is it wrong to live in a big house, drive a fancy car, and wear designer jeans? Not necessarily—if we know those things don’t bring happiness and we can function just fine without them.  

Sometimes less is better than more. Having less can help us focus on the truly important aspects of life without distractions. We can learn to appreciate beauty without a price tag. We can learn to value relationships over material gain. More programs don’t really satisfy the hole in our hearts that only Jesus can fill.

Simplifying our lives can be a challenge. However, there is wisdom in this Thomas Fuller quote: “Better a little fire to warm us than a great one to burn us.” 

*****

…I have come that they may have life and that they

may have it more abundantly.” ~John 10:10 (KJV)

This entry was posted in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink.