WISDOM OF SIMPLICITY (2)

“For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in SIMPLICITY and godly sincerity” – 2 Corinthians 1:12a

GOD’S WORD testifies to the WISDOM of SIMPLICITY: “For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in SIMPLICITY and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God…” (2Cor.1:12). Simplicity cultivates the habit of letting go; untying inordinate attachment to owning and having. It brings freedom and generosity; the freedom to uncomplicate and untangle life so we can focus on what really matters. We don’t need all the things or experiences we think we do. What we really need is to keep first things first: “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Mt.6:33).

Simplicity demands letting go of the web of wants so we can receive the simple gifts of life that cannot fizzle away. Simplicity is defined by the relative strengths of our relationships to God, family, church, community, and things, plus the attitudes of gratitude, giving, and generosity. The practice of simplicity includes: identifying and working to simplify the things and activities that keep life convoluted, complicated, and confusing; setting priorities that flow primarily from loving God; living light; cutting back on consumerism and discretionary spending; ingesting simple, natural, nutritious intakes; shunning ostentatious pleasures and excessive expenses; and lessening distractions and preoccupation with carnal pursuits. Simplicity prunes the dead branches of waste that deplete us of our God-given energy, time, and provisions.

In life, it’s tempting to take on as much as we can. However, piling too many things on the plate at once could lead to serious burnout. Life can be messy and overwhelming, but we can choose to make it simple and satisfying. Here are some significant benefits to simple living:

A simple life is more fulfilling and happier: We gain more control and quality time to unwind and focus on our real needs and well-being.

Reduced stress and improved inner peace: In simplifying life, we let go of things that invite anxiety (Mt.6:25-32; Phil.4:6).

A less packed schedule: While there are responsibilities we cannot ignore, choosing not to take on additional tasks leaves us with more time to truly live, doing what we enjoy. Every purpose in life has its proper time (Eccl.3: 1-3).

Improved mood and social battery: Simplicity ensures that we aren’t constantly irritable. The stresses and complications of hectic lifestyles drains our social battery faster. Social battery refers to how long we’re comfortable in social situations before desiring to be alone. Simplifying life means not letting ourselves run out of gas; noting when our warning lights are on. Exhausted Elijah was becoming suicidal (1Kg.19:1-4).

We live the life we want not what others expect of us: We’re not constantly under pressure to meet deadlines.

Here are Four practical points on How to Keep Life Simple:

Prioritize and focus on one task at a time (Phi.3:13). Despite the pressures, we must consciously decide to put less on life’s plate. When we’re able to focus, we can achieve more in less time and find life becomes less stressful.

Learn to honestly say “No”: “But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No” (Mt.5:37a). One of the hardest things to do is learn to say “No.” We often take on too much so as not to disappoint or let others down. However, by saying “no,” we can focus on the things that are really important to us and be more mindful of the commitments we make. We can’t please everyone all the time. It’s important to know our limits.

Reduce Clutter: Having too many material possessions around us can feel stressful. Holding on to too many things can weigh us down. Having fewer things can positively impact our mental health and make room for thought and creativity. We must change junk-creating habits such as impulsive purchases. Socrates wrote: The secret to happiness lies not in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less!

Avoid Addiction to smartphones and social media distractions: Reduce daily screen time. Expediency is key (1Cor.6:12; 10:23).