Less is More
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1 Timothy 6:6-8
6. There is great gain in godliness with contentment; 7. for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world; 8. but if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content
This is pretty amazing. . . I had just posted some comments at on myspace at http://blog.myspace.com/divinelydesigned about living with less and living on less because of Jim’s new job. He’s accepted a sales position that he’s very excited about (I am too!) As most people know, commissioned sales is an uncertain way to make money, and it will take a while for his income stream to reach the point we had grown accustomed to. I indicated at myspace.com, we’re actually kind of excited at the prospect of going back to a simpler, more frugal lifestyle.
We really won’t have to change much, actually. Our kids will both tell anyone who asks that we’re “pretty cheap.” What we hope we’ve taught them though, is to live without excessive debt, be satisfied, desire God first, then everything else will be in the proper perspective. We’ll be making some adjustments though, both financially and spiritually. Paul speaks several times about being content in any situation – even imprisonment. One thing we feel very strongly about is our financial commitment to our church. We have decided to honor our original level of financial giving. That’s a big change from where we were a few years ago.
But back to this “godliness with contentment” concept . . . I don’t think this means having a “holier than thou” attitude. It’s a statement of personal choice. It’s about living the best life we can, in spite of all our own shortcomings and failings. The sincere attempt is what God wants. He doesn’t expect perfect, only perfect intention. At least I hope so! This way of living is also about giving over to God the things of this world, the problems and the tragedies, and finding the strength to go on—through Him.
There is a groundswell movement toward getting back to a simpler time, a simpler lifestyle. On the internet I’ve found many sites that offer how to live on less, how to spend less, how to recycle, reuse and live more responsibly. It’s always been around, but I think more and more of us are sick of the blatant consumerism that seems to be the norm in society now. God doesn’t care what car we drive, where we live, how much we make, how much stuff we own. He knows what is in our hearts – that’s where he wants us to store up enough to last a lifetime.
Don’t get me wrong, many very wealthy people give back a lot of what they have to the world. Nothing wrong with being rich—I’d love to try it sometime! After I spent about $5000 to purchase the one or two items I consider a luxury, I’d be giving a lot more away too. But I am very content with my life. I am blessed beyond words with a wonderful husband, and two amazing children. I have more than I deserve and certainly more than I could every “earn” on my own. God has blessed me with a network of friends who walk with me on this journey called life, and help me stay on track. Most of all they love me even when I stray—just as God does.
Contentment is a state of heart and mind. I don’t know how one achieves it. I only know how great it is to reach that point.
My prayer today is that you take inventory of the true, lasting blessings in your life. And that you replace a desire to be happy, with contentment.
Mary
