A Moment of Simplicity

I love getting rid of things.

You could label me as a minimalist, but essentially I just hate clutter. I am always going through my possessions with a fine toothed comb. And if there is something I don’t need, use, or want I am happy to give it to the thrift store or someone else.

I strive to keep things simple.

My wardrobe, for example, could be considered small by some, but I always have something to wear. And it brings me joy to look at my closet and know I love everything I own. Each item is used, cared for, and functional.

So at this point you may be wondering, “How does simplifying possessions relate to a walk with God?”

One word.

Simplicity.

In my Christian journey, I often make things too complicated. I have an invisible list in my head of things I need to do in order to connect to God “correctly”.

Pray in the morning. Check.

Write in my journal. Check.

Listen to a sermon. Check.

Listen to worship music. Check.

And for a short while, the achiever in me will feel proud. “Look at all we accomplished.” They will say. But making a relationship with God into a checklist, isn’t a relationship at all. Not to say these things are not good to do. Because they are.

There has to be a simpler way to connect to God.

It all starts with our mindset.

When we start to look at God as a task instead of a person, we shortchange all the amazing ways He wants to connect to us. Instead of letting Him lead, we put God in a box of “to-dos”.

And I don’t know about you, but I certainly don’t want to be put in a box or made to feel like a task.

Neither does our Creator.

When we stop trying to check all the boxes and do the “right” things, God has more room to move. We open the door for Him to speak to us and direct our steps for the day. If we can listen for His voice, He will show us what to do.

If He leads you to pray, pray.

If He leads you to read the Bible, read.

If He leads you to sing or dance, then sing and dance.

If He leads you to a specific sermon or song, don’t hesitate to enjoy it.

The key here is not going about our business each day waiting for God to automatically tell us what to do. Sometimes He does. But it is the act of quieting ourselves and coming to Him that truly strengthens our connection.

This might mean setting aside all the devotionals, Bible studies, journals, routines, and plans for our time with God. Try simply saying each day, “Lord here I am. What would you have me do?”.

And watch how God speaks to you. How He leads you. Discover how decluttering our approach with God can create space for a deeper relationship with Him.

Just keep it simple.

Praying for you,

Jasmine