The Simple Life–Little Things

As I grow older I appreciate more and more the importance of these words: Keep Life Simple. I have had the freedom through much of my life to select my priorities and to live life pretty much on my own schedule–both during my years in ministry and later in the university. Now in my role as ministry and mission consultant and speaker, that freedom is even greater.

We live in a world that threatens to make life intensely complex. One can spend tremendous amounts of time doing things that make little difference in the long run. Our lives often operate by the tyranny of the urgent and the importance of the immediate. The simple life seeks to establish priorities and live a focused life. The simple life appreciates the little things. I recognize that the simple life is a luxury unavailable to many in our rushed and hectic world, but one can take steps in the right direction even in a hurried world.

Here are five ideas.

Avoid the tendency to think life matters because we are busy. Do not overschedule life. Find time to take a break from mere busyness. Beware leisure activities that are not leisurely.

Avoid the tendency to think that “things” define life. The “stuff” is temporary. Relationships are vital to the simple life.

Keep the most important parts of life, and the most important activities of life, in focus. Make lists of things to do, keep the most important things as top priorities every day.

Do not ignore the little things: time with family and friends, time enjoyed for its simplicity. Take time to see and enjoy God’s natural beauty.

Take time to enjoy and appreciate the little things–be alert to sights, sounds, smells, and experiences. Let these be times of peace in your life.

Above all, the simple life and the little things include an awareness of God. Be thankful in all circumstances.
“Thank you, Lord, for the simplicity of life and the little things that make life special.”