Simplicity

Been thinking about an illustration of simplicity that I didn't use on Sunday, but I think is a very practical reminder of how we could enjoy a life of simplicity.

When I was in college a professor taught me about the spiritual disciplines. When talking about simplicity he shared how he and his wife practiced this discipline. They sat down and discussed the maximum amount of money they needed to live on. Yes, the maximum amount. Most people evaluate the minimum they need to live on. But in the discipline of simplicity they sought the maximum. They agreed that $80,000 was all they needed as a household income to pay their bills and provide for their family. Therefore in the discipline of simplicity they gave away everything over that amount to churches, ministries, and charities.

Remember, simplicity recognizes that we could have more, but we choose to do without so that we may grow closer to God.

--Ben