Less Is More

God’s will is very clear and straightforward—rejoice, pray, and give thanks in everything. A heart that is grateful is a heart that is satisfied and content.

At this juncture in history, we have more material goods, more entertainment, and more food options than at any other time. Yet, “having more” has created a culture that is never satisfied, often in debt, and dependent on self-gratification while neglecting the greater needs of people less fortunate than themselves. Children are coddled, entertained to death, and spoiled with expectations that can never totally be assuaged, which creates a complaining spirit and self-pity if every desire is not promptly met.

Worse, many parents have come to think they are supposed to provide all these things for their children so they can be happy, instead of understanding God wants them to cultivate children who have learned to be content.

Jesus came into the world with no stately form or majesty that would cause us to look upon Him. Having no title, and few possessions, He chose fishermen, tax collectors, and common men and women to be His companions. He lived a simple, common life, with “nowhere to lay His head.” In this, He modeled to us a thankful heart.

Simplicity is one of the keys to gratitude. For children, how important it is that they learn to be satisfied with playing at the beach or walking in a forest or digging in the dirt, carrying a notebook around so they can draw a tree or flowers, singing and dreaming under a shade tree.

His Promises

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said,

“I will never fail you.

I will never abandon you.”

Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.