Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:33-37, Luke 10:38-42, Luke 12:15-33, 1 Timothy 6:9, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Hebrews 13:5, James 4:1-2
Over the last several years in America there has been a rising emphasis on minimalism and downsizing as a response to consumerism and the anxiety it stirs up in human hearts. The idea of simplifying life, even of asceticism (self-discipline and abstinence from worldly pleasures), has a certain draw because of the self-control it signifies and the removal of chaos from life. We tend to think in terms of habits and lifestyles, our self-dictated modes of constructing a life to achieve a certain outcome—in this case, peace through simplification. But this is not the way the Bible addresses simplicity.
Throughout the New Testament, the emphasis from Jesus and all the other authors is on the heart.
When Jesus spoke with Mary and Martha (Luke 10), He commended Mary’s heart, her desire to receive from Him. In Matthew 5, Jesus upheld a clear, straightforward, honest character: Be a person of your word. In Luke 12, Jesus used examples—a rich fool, the birds, the flowers—to remind us that rooted faith in a loving heavenly Father counteracts anxiety. And Hebrews 13:5 points us to contentment, not technique: “Be satisfied with what you have.” These verses, and so many others like them, clearly show that what matters most is what our hearts are resting on and trusting in.
Where are we looking for contentment, and on what are we placing our hope?
Of course, the Bible addresses acute dangers with pointed warnings. The New Testament writers knew intimately the temptations and inclinations of the human heart, including and especially the love of money (1Timothy 6:9,17–19, Hebrews 13:5). It is a universal temptation, whether we have lots of money or very little, because the love of money is less about wealth and more about worship. To love money (or possessions of any kind) is to place more confidence in it, to desire it more, and to give it a more prominent place in our heart than Jesus. So the Bible doesn’t command specific actions or strategies to resist this temptation—downsize, donate, minimize, etc.—because the remedy is not external but internal.
We must rest our hearts, our lives, and our futures entirely on Christ. That is true simplicity.
Simplicity resides at the level of faith. On what are you depending? In whom are you hoping? By what standard do you measure your success and reputation? If the answer is anything other than Jesus, we have invited chaos and anxiety into our hearts.
If this (ironically) seems simplistic to you, consider that such foundational faith will inevitably shape the rest of your life—your decisions, lifestyle, and planning. To place your trust solely in Jesus is not eschewing responsibility but directing it decisively with single-mindedness. When the Bible speaks of being single-minded or whole-hearted, it means to have one focus, one aim, one provider, one God, one Savior. It means to depend wholly on Christ, serve Him alone, and let Him shape and direct your decisions. This can be frightening because we are tempted to think that securing the future depends on us. But remember: “Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32).
Written by Barnabas Piper
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111 thoughts on "Simplicity"
WOW this really hit home this morning. I so often hear simplicity focused just on having less, giving more. But this focus on the heart, on the single-minded and whole-hearted focus on Jesus felt so clear and new for me. What a beautiful and simple idea. I feel renewed. Thank you! ❤️
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This is a great reminder to us not to let the love of money overtake us and to not place our hope in things that are of this world. God is our hope and He is the one we should truly place our hope in set them on Him. We also shouldn’t be ungrateful for the things God has already given us, He tells us to be more content with what we have from Him already!!
Simplicity is a wonderful compliment to the other disciplines this week- and one that has been on my heart for quite sometime. Thankful for this reminder see today.
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hmm, I don’t see my comment! Did I not push enter, or did it go to moderation?! Anywho…!
I am trying to simplify! It is rewarding and give you a pep in your step when you don’t have all the stuff piled up and organized closets! I know that’s not what we are talking about here, but we do have too much stuff that becomes our idols!
But it kinda is. Have you listened to the podcast yet? Christine talks about how she travels 200+ days a year for her ministry, so her entire wardrobe must fit into her suitcase. She isn’t saying that we must all do that, because we all have different callings; but I was definitely inspired to donate some clothing I don’t use. And after my divorce, I simplified my kitchen greatly because I had to move into an apartment with a kitchen 1/3 the size of my house. It was painful, but I have what I need. What you or another SHE may need to do to simplify will look different. It is a matter of the heart, after all.
Yes! It is hard to simplify, but it is nice after you do it isn’t it?! I have not listened yet, I will have to make a point to remember, ty!
All of your comments have been so helpful today. I love all of you ladies and am so happy to have you in my life. It truly is the simple things that make our hearts feel satisfied and loved. I’m praying for us all to feel simplicity in sitting with our Savior today ❤️
I saw the ophthalmologist today, and just got off the phone with her now. I had two episodes of optic nerve neuritis several years ago, and have also had many surgeries in that same (left) eye over the years. For the past couple of weeks, I’m experiencing the same symptoms again, but not as severe as in the past. She can’t see the back of my optic nerve without an MRI, and thinks that it could be a less severe case of optic nerve neuritis than i had in the past. They have changed the treatment protocol for this from high-dose IV steroids to just waiting for it to resolve on its own. So, for now, no MRI, no treatment, and I’ll see her again in four weeks unless the pain increases.
Overall, this is good news. Thank you for your prayers, and please continue to pray that the pain decreases and I don’t have to have an MRI or steroids.
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Have prayed❤️
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Today I feel like I am not making anything simple. The more I am trying to put these spiritual disciplines into practice, the more I am aware that I’m constantly failing. It’s so frustrating to want to not be of the flesh and find yourself right there in it. Paul reflects this so well in Romans! I realize that I have been trying to do these things in my own strength, which only makes life harder. Only God can lead me to do these things consistently well. Praying for all of us as we continue to grow in Christ.
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I love the emphasis on where our hearts are. This is an internal battle, not external. We can have a little or a lot, what really matters is where we find our treasure. I have to say that the more money I have acquired, the harder it can be to not treasure it. The pull to find my treasure and my identity in the gifts and not the giver is harder and harder. I am so thankful for my husband and his wisdom with our money and our giving. I pray the Lord would be my treasure in this unsteady world. ❤️
Ah, the free & simple life.
“So the Bible doesn’t command specific actions or strategies to resist this temptation [accumulation, adulation]—downsize, donate, minimize, etc.—because the remedy is not external but internal.”
Boy, have I ever tried & tried the “efficient”.
Only to fail again & again.
Displacing the “sufficient”. The One who satisfies.
Lord, please direct my steps to the center,
the heart, of all things.
Desire for you.
Contentment through you.
Security from you.
Amen & Amen
Praying your prayer today ❤️
Have No Fear, Little Flock, such a beautiful way God reminds us of His love! ❤️
1 Have no fear, little flock;
have no fear, little flock,
for the Father has chosen
to give you the kingdom;
have no fear, little flock!
2 Have good cheer, little flock;
have good cheer, little flock,
for the Father will keep you
in his love forever;
have good cheer, little flock!
3 Praise the Lord high above;
praise the Lord high above,
for he stoops down to heal you,
uplift and restore you;
praise the Lord high above!
4 Thankful hearts raise to God;
thankful hearts raise to God,
for he stays close beside you,
in all things works with you;
thankful hearts raise to God!
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I really loved today’s devotional, the word simplicity is so beautiful. I think of my grandmother, who lived through the Depression, the war, and the long recovery after it. Her living room was always full of comforting things, and I imagine that, for her, it represented a sense of security within reach. Then there is my mom, with a wardrobe holding more clothes than she could ever need, for she did not have many outfits as a child. And now me, I wonder what my own living room and my closet represents. Does it quietly reveal a fear of lack? Or does it reflect trust in God, the provider who meets me with exactly what I need, exactly when I need it? I do collect books for I love knowledge, and even the gift of knowledge and understanding comes from God. One of my favorite movies to watch when I’m feeling down is Anne of Green Gables. It always reminds me that joy can be simple, that it’s within reach, if only we have eyes to see it and imagination enough to find it. Envy and comparison are thieves of joy. And God can do exceedingly more than all we can ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us. It’s very cold for us up north, wishing I could send some cold air to you sisters where it may get extra toasty.
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SEARCHING- prayers for J’s eye recovery.
WENDY B- more strength as you return to work this week.
LINDA IN NC- wishing your daughter a happy birthday and God’s comfort for your family.
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Be blessed dear sisters.
My hubby & I love Anne of Green Gables! We have made it a habit to watch every fall.
Thank you Mercy ❤️
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GM! Ya’ll have about said it all!
We ALL need simplicity in our lives. But Christians, as people of faith, it means to rest in the Lord. Trusting, praying, peace, faith, that He HAS US! That we don’t need to fret, worry, fear of the HOW. And when we are lucky enough to have what we need, which as Americans we all have what we need, we need to get out of the frenzy of stuff! I always justify it b/c I like finding all my stuff at the Walmarts and Aldi’s and Goodwill’s. Yet, it still STUFF and crowds my little downsized house. Now I am staying in my little RV for 2 weeks and I love the simplicity of it. It is good to remind myself as I wear the same clothes without care and 2 pairs of shoes.
It definitely takes a lifetime to seem to figure this out as Americans strive for bigger houses and then retire and get rid of the bigger house, lol. I love the fond memories of all of grandkids sleeping at my grandmas all cross-ways in one bed. Then at my mom’s house all the grandkids in recliners and couch and floor. It’s good and fun.
Prayers for the requests and all of my She’s! I posted a great song on our page…”The Lord will Provide” I think is the name. Please continue prayers for Brayden. He has court tomorrow, and I will be there so he can see his Roro’s support.
“Simplicity resides at the level of faith. On what are you depending? In whom are hoping?”
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I have faith, and I do depend on God – 100%…But the truth is, we need money to survive – to buy food, gas, medicine, insurance etc. and we need money to keep the door of our church open. I know God has the power & ability to provide all that we need, but the question then is – is it His will?? I guess that’s where I struggle. I don’t love money or want more things, I just want to be able to survive financially in this world. It’s so hard when the prices of everything continues to go up and up, yet our income goes down & down.
I know there are others who are in much, much worse financial circumstances than us. I will continue to trust and to wait on God. He always provides. Jesus never fails. God is faithful. All of my hope is in Him!
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Thank you ladies for your encouraging words yesterday and…
@Lanie, how funny was that dream – FYI, I would never correct your punctuation! haha!
@Tanya Evans – prayers for Rita and for her son, Leo
@Rhonda – continued n prayers for Braydon
@Michelle P – prayers and hugs for you my sweet sister. ❤
@Traci G – thank you for Sharing photos of the view from your windows – how beautiful! … I want to come visit and see it in person!
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Happy Wednesday She’s – so thankful for you all!! ❤
I live everyone’s honesty here! I can get caught up in doing more than sitting with Jesus! I have a little pad by me so that during my devotional time all the little to dos don’t take over! And I need to simplify my closet! I have lots of clothes from working and don’t wear a lot now that I’m retired! I need to work on that!! Oops now I’m concentrating on doing! It is definitely a heart posture! When I focus on Jesus and give Him my to do list, things get done much easier!
I’m so glad He is patient with all of us! The older I get, the more I am aware of my need for My Savior!
Praying for all! Praying for anyone who is struggling today! May God just give you a big hug today and a God wink of reassurance that you are right in His hands! Love and hugs to all my sisters from very toasty Oklahoma! We might get a cold front and drop from the 100’s to low 90’s!
Cheryl I think we have the same thoughts on not doing and getting distracted with doing!
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Continued prayers for your ongoing battle with your health issues. Thankful that your symptoms are more manageable right now. Also praying wisdom for you! ❤
This was meant as a reply to @Wendy B!
Thank you Sharon ❤️
I have often strived for simplicity in my day to day endeavors. I have rarely been successful though. Not exactly sure why. Am I looking for affirmation, admiration acceptance.? This is a timely message for me. I’m working on a reunion event and have caught myself thinking..” What if I haven’t done enough? Lots for me to think on.
“But seek his kingdom,and these things will be provided for you.” Luke 12:31
Even the concept is simple, but not easy – seek Him and He will provide. I (we) just make it so much harder than it needs to be by trying to add too much, getting caught up in the norms of society, confusing wants with needs, desires, discontentment etc. Overall, I think i have a pretty good handle on simplicity and in many ways have pared down my life in the last number of years but I think continuing to be mindful of simplicity is so important to ensure my heart is truly oriented in Jesus being the answer. These couple sentences and questions really gave me something to think on for today.
“We must rest our hearts, our lives, and our futures entirely on Christ. That is true simplicity. Simplicity resides at the level of faith. On what are you depending? In whom are you hoping? By what standard do you measure your success and reputation? If the answer is anything other than Jesus, we have invited chaos and anxiety into our hearts.”
Thank Jesus that you are the answer.❤️
Thank you for your faithful prayers. I have been fairly consistent with how I am feeling the last couple weeks and my symptoms are much more manageable and controlled – PTL. I am fairly closely monitored right now with labs every 2 weeks and so far I’m stable. I am making a gradual return to work this work and will see how things go. There is a lot to consider and balance to manage it all. Its a fine line between being active, getting out and doing things and still resting, and getting my mind off of the myriad of health challenges and just focusing on other things. Please pray for continued healing and just wisdom as I try to move forward. Praise the Lord for the many ways He has faithfully been at work in my life❤️
Prayers dear Wendy. I know exactly what you mean in your last paragraph. Especially as a fitness/lifestyle coach. We have to move to stay well, yet we have to know when and how, not over do it, yet keep strong. And REST lots. We can’t DO what we “did do.” We have to do for how we are now! (does that make sense?) Mild stretching is most important!
You summed up simplicity great and where our focus should be! You always sum up great!
Prayers! ❤❤❤ And PRAISES re: side effects.
Praying for you daily, Wendy. And so happy to hear things are stable and you’re feeling well enough to return to work. God is so good! Will pray for your strength as you go back to work, as well as continued healing. ❤️
Thank you so much, sisters❤️
Praying for you!!
“Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father (our daddy) delights to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)
THIS has been SO true in my life and I have shared over and over how MY JESUS has been taking care of me and my children who are now young adults. I miss them so much! I sit here by a window taking in the “cool” air for now (going to get very HOT later) and reflect on how much JESUS loves me, YOU, all of us! AND how HE has provided and been FAITHFUL to me, His little flock! My JESUS delights in me!! He delights in YOU!
Amen!! Praise God, He takes care of his flock!! Look at the birds of the air, the flower in the field…(HEART).
Mari, a year ago this time I was right where you are. And I am an extrovert, so I would get so lonely. I lived for my daughter’s occasional weekend visits. Well, at the end of the school year, her sister moved back home, and she came home for the summer. The dynamics changed completely, and not always for the better. The “baby” is back at college, but the middle daughter is still home with me, and I’m in a whole new era of parenting an adult child who is no longer a child and shouldn’t be treated like one. It’s a whole different kind of hard—setting appropriate boundaries. So I know how lonely you are. It won’t always be this way, whether your babies return to the nest or not. We will all walk through this together! Just reminding you that you have been in my prayers. ❤️
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Martha and Mary…. How I want to be like Mary so bad but I always find my self being like Martha. I blame my disobedience usually on not understanding, thinking I wish I understood so I could obey instead of obeying and then God letting me understand if He chooses.
Faith is simple in its truest form – the invitation from God is there – we just have to accept and trust it. So much easier said than done.
I feel like there is simplicity in my life, but is there? Something to ponder more on today.
Talk about simplicity! This passage came to mind as I read this morning:
Matthew 22
35 And one of them, an expert in the law, asked a question to test him: 36 “Teacher, which command in the law is the greatest?”
37 He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38 This is the greatest and most important command. 39 The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
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Amen!
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I keep having a box pop up from shereadstruth.com saying 568, cancel or ok. I have no idea what it means. Can y’all tell me?
SRT knows about it and is working to get it fixed.
I have had the same thing happen yesterday and today.
Just a glitch on their end and they are working on it. Good to see you! ❤
Good morning sweet sisters! I’m a day behind with my reading and trying to catch up. I’ve come here this morning to request your prayers. Today is my daughter’s birthday. This is the first of a string of firsts without our beloved Gene to celebrate with us between now and the end of the year. Many birthdays and holidays. One thing all of us looked toward to hearing was what crazy birthday song would we hear over the phone on our birthday! The lyrics were basically the same but the tune NEVER! A fond but sad memory. The tears are falling this morning. You Version verse is appropriate today. ” Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning ” Many thanks for your prayers and much love.
Praying for you. What a wonderful memory Gene has left Imprinted on your hearts with his birthday song peace and comfort for you today is what I’ll pray❤️
Praying for you and your family through these next holidays and that God would comfort you and bring peace.
Praying for God’s comfort to cover you and your family dear Linda. Praying that your daughter has sweet memories of her Dad and a nice birthday today. Yes, after the weeping, joy comes in the morning.
Oh, Linda! I understand completely. In fact, I have a precious message on my phone from the last birthday song greeting left by my sister minths befor her passing 11 years ago. I am glad I missed her call that day so I have that treasure on my phone.
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Our family is celebrating a birthday today, too!
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May precious memories counteract the sadness for your family and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to your daughter! ❤❤❤
oh what a sweet memory to have of your dear Gene, making others smile! What a gift!! Prayers for comfort and peace during this time, and fond memories! It’s a gift you had him. How we wish we could keep loved ones forever…luckily with heaven we will!!!
Are your children believers?
Yes! Strong believers. I have 1 prodigal grandson. The other 7 are believers and active in their churches. Such a blessing!
Praying g for you Linda. How hard all those “firsts” must be. May God give you the grace and strength as you go through each one. ❤
Praying for you, Linda, and all of your family! Firsts are hard but I know God will be with you!
Linda, I’m thinking of you and your daughter with love today. And praying you both are comforted by the memories that can bring both smiles and tears. Gene sounds so special! I’m praying you all feel Jesus especially close close today and through all the difficult “firsts.” ❤️
A day late, but praying for you and will continue to as you go through the “firsts” without Gene.
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Precious Linda, praying for you every day as you go through all these “firsts” without Gene. I thought that once I made it through that first year things would magically be easier. Sadly, it is all still very hard and I don’t go a day without at least a few tears. Just remember that you are loved and supported by this group of ladies and your Heavenly Father is holding you up.
I had a rather bizarre thought after reading today’s devotional.
Eden didnt have any storage units.
They had food and God. The beauty of the garden , the beauty and communion of God, and the living creatures. Having 8 pairs of identical pants from Gap really didnt matter or was an issue.
Some times as humans and Americans are possesions are distractions.
Well said Tanya! So true Eden didn’t have store houses.
Tanya, what a great thought to reflect on :)
“Some times as humans and Americans our possesions are distractions.” How true this is!
we love STUFF! Possessions! Our kids have toys galore and always want more! And we give!
I told my son I created a monster as far as “stuff” and getting “the next one!” Meaning we would go to the coffee shop and he would get the “stuffed animal” cant remember the name..and then every “next” new one that came out. Then with video games when older…he always had to have the next one, and mom would take him to get it! We truly never are satisfied. He just moved into a new apartment and can’t fit all his movies and Legos he has. It’s ridiculous but it is making him see “his stuff.” But we are all the same, (usually clothes or purses, shoes…with women). I have simplified as we get older of course!They truly do become distractions.
Great point!
Excellent thought, Tanya! “Eden didn’t have any storage units.” I’m going to try to hold onto that. ❤️
Amen
It can be hard not to worry about money and falsely allow it to take over my thoughts. Am I making enough? Can I afford this? So on and so forth. May I be convicted by the Holy Spirit in those moments to reorient my thinking. God is faithful. He will always provide!
Amen, Susan!
Amen Susan! Same.
SIMPLICITY reminded me of God’s Divine Simplicity.
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Found this explanation with AI:
“By “simple,” theologians do not mean that God is easy to understand, plain, or lacking depth. Instead, it is the opposite of being compound. God is an indivisible, unified reality.”
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Just pondering how God’d simplicity might be more of how we are to be simple too. Not a monetary thing per se, but an undivided heart and purpose.
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Traveling back to Ohio today. Prayers appreciated.
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Praying for your requeats.
I think your thoughts and my thoughts took the same train this mirning! See my comment. ☺☺☺
Praying for safe travel home and praying your mom will remember your acts and words of encouragement and act on them! ❤❤❤
Praying for safe travels home Kelly.
Prayers for safety as you travel back to Ohio.
Praying for you!
In understanding simplicity from God’s perspective, prioritizing Him is key. I know this, yet struggle to keep the Lord in the #1 spot. Praying on how can I be less Martha and more Mary and still meet my responsibilities to family and my work load. I feel like I’m constantly in motion, always working to finish at least 1 thing. And the things, they just keep coming.
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TERESA COOPER DONLEY praying for ophthalmologist appointment
MARGARET W ❤️
GWINETH52 ❤️❤️❤️ loved your ‘lyrics’ yesterday
CEE GEE ❤️
MICHELLE P ❤️ ‘But there is hope to be had and I hold onto that’ – yes, we always have Jesus, hand on tight, sister ❤️
RHONDA J ❤️ praying for your loved ones
KAREN SWANSON ❤️ the phrase you shared “classroom of silence” – thinking on what is taught and what can we learn there, thank you
TANYA EVANS ❤️ praying for Liz, Rita and Leo
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Prayer request – friend’s husband, J, (mid 50’s) previously had multiple surgeries and procedures in one eye due to detached retina and complications – in the past 3 weeks has had 2 emergency surgeries due to detached retina in the other eye (his good one) and an additional procedure. Vision is extremely poor at this point, praying for improvement in eyesight so that he can drive and return to work, and especially praying there are no more problems with either eye.
Praying, SEARCHING
Praying!
Praying for your friend and his care team! ❤
Praying for improvement in your friend’s husband’s eyesight Searching. And yes. I want to be more like Mary and less Martha too. I love coming here in the morning with all of you.
Praying for “J” and that his eye situation improves soon.
Praying for your friend’s husband!
Praying Searching ❤️
Praying for J right now, that his eyesight will improve and there will be no more problems with either eye.
Amen
Amen!
As it always is, it’s the heart issue. What am I trusting in? Where is my hope? I so often want to add to or “help” create that security. I often want to trust in “Jesus…plus my bank account, Jesus…plus my careful planning, Jesus…plus my feelings or experiences, Jesus…plus my hard work”. None of those “add-ons” are bad in and of themselves, but they are terrible saviors. Lord help me to place my hope, trust, and faith in you and you alone! Grant me peace and freedom from anxiety that comes from full reliance upon you! In Jesus’ name, Amen!
I second your prayer! And yes,”Jesus plus” is usually my default as well.
Amen, Kayla! Praying this myself.
‘Add-ons’ is a good way to put it! Sure do understand what you mean, little too well unfortunately….
Adding my Amen to that as I read out loud your prayer!!
Trying to pray prayers out loud and sincerely rather than just a quick..nod.
Amen!
Amen ❤️
Beautiful prayer.
Good morning! I love that in Luke 12 the Scripture reminds us that our Father already knows what we need. I am reading this portion of the text and thinking that my mind is like Martha’s all the time! I am so grateful for the passage “do not be anxious”!
Simplicity isn’t really about having less or changing everything about our lifestyle. It’s about where our hearts are placing our hope and finding our contentment. It’s so easy to look to things we can control or accumulate for security, but I’m reminded that true peace comes from trusting Jesus with my life, my future, and everything in between. I want my heart to be satisfied in Him instead of always looking for something else to make me feel secure.
Smen
Oh wow your last sentence- how I want that so deeply also❤️
Amen!❤️
Yes and Amen❤️
“I want my heart to BE SATISFIED in Him..”
Amen. “Satisfied” is nailing it on the head.
We seem to never be satisfied in this life we are all living.
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Loving and praying you all have a Mighty God blessed day.
Praying for requests..
Much love covered in hugs..❤️
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