Real Wealth, Rich Simplicity
August 21st, 2012 | Tags: • attention, balance, Christ, commitment, devotion, direction, discernment, epistles, focus, God, God's Word, goodness, grace, joy, life, peace, Psalms, rest, richness, sense, simplicity, steps, treasure, truth, wealth, wisdomTrain me in good common sense;
Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place,
You are good, and the source of good;
The godless spread lies about me,
They’re bland as a bucket of lard,
My troubles turned out all for the best—
Truth from your mouth means more to me
A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. — 1 Timothy 6:7a, The Message
What current activity or opportunity might be distracting you from enjoying this kind of simplicity in your life? When you see unmet needs for leadership and/or service around you—in your job or community, at home, school, or church, among your friends, family, and co-workers—do you want to respond and try to meet the need according to a list of “shoulds” instead of focusing on what God has specifically called you to do?
What goes? What stays? What needs adding?
Our natural inclination when we’re under pressure is to turn away from God’s peace. Notice the symptoms: Anxiety, upset, worry, irritability, comparisons, anger, and resentment. “Lord, don’t you care?” Choosing to wait upon the Lord and trust Him with our concerns isn’t easy or automatic. We can choose to turn toward Life as we seek Christ’s help and direction, wherever we find ourselves.
What comes to mind as you ask God for discernment about distractions in your life today?