1 Timothy 6:6-7
Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
When it comes to needing motivation to live more simply, this verse is both inspirational and humbling. It really highlights the truth in that what we think we own here on this earth, does not actually belong to us. Sure we can pass on the things we have gained in our lifetime such as money and other material possessions, however it is certain that we will not leave with any of it. That is a sobering reality.
What then should our relationship with stuff be then? Is it okay to own things or is that something to be avoided? Should a Christian be a minimalist?
Jesus had this to say to the rich young ruler, when he asked what he should to do have eternal life:
Mathew 19:21-22
Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”
But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
I encourage you to read the entire passage to read the verses in context. Some may interpret this to say that we should give up everything we own so that we can follow Jesus. I believe that we are to give up the idols in our heart. The things of the world that are holding us back from following Jesus with our whole heart. That does not necessarily mean that we are to give up all that we own.
What do you truly need?
When we think about our lives and what God has called us to do personally, then I think we can get a better perspective on what it is that we truly need. Earthly possessions then become a tool that we can use to fulfil our purposes that God has put on our heart. If you are blessed with a large family then you may need a bigger house, more beds, a large dining table. And that’s okay! The point is not to have the least amount of items. Things should serve us not the other way around.
Luke 16:13
“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”
Created to serve God, not stuff
We are created to serve God. Not stuff. As you look around your home, ask yourself what items are serving you? What items improve your life and which ones are a burden? Which things are stealing your time and energy? Could I live without this?
Prioritise
I have found it helpful to have a short list of my top 5 priorities for the year. Things such as cook healthy meals, study the bible daily, spend more quality time with my daughter and more. When I look at that list I can then put my stuff into perspective and figure out what it is that I really need. Yes I do own ornaments and decor and that’s okay too! I want our home to be inviting and comfortable. But I continue to evaluate what we need and what we don’t. Then our home can be a place of peace and order. Too much unnecessary stuff is a burden and distraction.
I hope this post has encouraged you to focus on what’s really important in your life today and eliminate those things that aren’t.