The concept of living a simple life started for me at a very young age, and has only grown into more of a passion over time as I go through adulthood. It was modeled to me by my parents who lived a simple life, were very grateful for everything they had, and found joy in small, everyday moments. The older I get, the more I learn the older tradition of simple living, which Jesus modeled throughout the gospels.
Living simply requires intentionality and thoughtfulness. It is not about what we have or want, but about our time and how we spend it, our hearts, and how we give Him glory. I heard on the Thankful Homemaker podcast recently about not losing any one moment of time. The quote they referenced was, “Resolved never to lose one moment of time but to improve it in the most profitable way I possibly can.”
Simple living for me finds its roots in these three things:
- My relationship with Jesus
- My closest relationships
- The work God has called me to do
Living a simple life looks different for everyone. For example, someone could want to live more simply in regards to their self-sufficiency, technology, or their mindset. It begins with evaluating what’s most important to us in this time here on Earth. Things of this world can easily creep into our top three that can lead us away from Jesus, lead us into envy, comparison and everything but living simply.
Simple living to me is when I am focused on Jesus, spending time investing in the lives o those around me, living out my purpose, in constant search of His presence, finding the goodness in everyday, not “wanting” and abiding in Him. When we walk with God daily, we are more content in every circumstance, looking to grow closer to Him, and more importantly, learn more about who He is.
A few of my favorite Bible verses on simple living and the topics I have discussed:
- “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” 1 Timothy 6:6-8
- “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33
- Christ calls us and tells us that we will be set apart. My life verse from John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy. I have come so they may have life and have it abundantly.” When we are in Christ, we have access through Him to a life of abundance.
- “So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
- “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, making the best use of time because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16
