We fill our lives with a lot more than needs. I would say that it is okay to enjoy and have things we want but the idea of simplicity is more than this idea. As Foster shares in the first line of this chapter, simplicity is freedom.
Have you ever felt like you do not have enough? Or have the desire and need for something more in this life? Throughout scripture we are warned not to trust in riches, not to build up our treasures in heaven, the desire to be rich will make us fall into temptation. Yet simplicity is still more than this.
When we find ourselves content with riches or in poverty this is when we can find simplicity. The problem with simplicity is it can be seen in our lives easily. The attitude of simplicity can be displayed. If we find ourselves anxious about not having or holding onto what we have it can fall into the idea of idolatry. Foster brings us back to "seek first his kingdom and righteousness."
So how do we live a life of simplicity? Foster gives 10 tips on doing this. Since I dont want to make this blog a book, I will address the ones in my life that I need to continue to work on.
- "Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you." This could be anything from caffeine to tv. But it does not need to be a product. It could be the feeling of power or the continual search for joy while not looking to Christ. Release it. As I stated earlier simplicity is freedom, not slavery. If it holds you down, controls you, if you find yourself desiring it more than the things of God than this is a dangerous place to be.
- "Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry." (That is a mouthful Foster) I dont feel like I need the best or newest but I definitely like the ability that makes me "feel connected." I like Apple, we have a SmartTV. But not having a lot of extra cash flow helps me in this.
- "Shun anything that distracts you from seeking the kingdom of God." God first, God central.
Simplicity in itself can become legalistic. And I think this is where my problem is. I have never felt like I needed anything. It makes me a hard person to buy for. The problem with this is projecting this same idea onto others. This is when simplicity can become legalism.
The one thing that simplicity allows me to do is give. I have free time to give others. I have left over money that I am able to save and help someone in need. When you dont stretch your money and need to live from paycheck to paycheck you find freedom. Simplicity is freedom.
