A Simple Life
Alice Cheng
The modern society is resource-rich, convenient and efficient, but is it really a good thing? Society has become more and more complex. Many people have mental and physical fatigue, alienation, untidy living condition and no work-life balance. Many physical and mental illnesses appear, such as anxiety, depression, fear and extreme fatigue, etc. Only by returning to simplicity can these maladies be cured.
Less Complicated, More Simplicity
Everyone was born naked into this world. God, the creator of this world, gave everyone free will and the ability to love and to plan for the future. However, life becomes chaotic due to greed and obsession. In fact, one needs to have a simple life to pursuit truth and the meaning of life.
Less Materialistic, More Sharing
A mature attitude of living with less starts from not shopping recklessly, not hoarding or wasting things. Reducing things in our living space not only can make it looks clean, but also free us from materialism and hedonism. Moreover, we can have more time to care for others who are in needs.
Speak Less and Speak Good Things
The Bible says that bad words are like swords and will hurt and destroy people. The Bible teaches people not to criticize recklessly and not to make endless comments. Do not speak obscenity, foolish talks or coarse jokes, but say good things that build up people. It is good to say more words of thanksgiving and apology, which make people happy and relief.
Less Trivial Matters, More Loving
Modern technology is supposed to save us time and effort. However, we became busy doing trivial things. While we are busy charging electronics, earning points and discounts, do we realized that there are people who need our attentions?
Less Resentment, More Forgiveness
Disagreements and conflicts between people are inevitable and grueling. The process of resolving disagreements is communication, understanding, acceptance, and reconciliation with the other party. But the final step is often forgiveness, so that we will not be left with psychological wounds and resentments in our hearts.
Less Vanity, Emphasis on Introspection
People often judge others based on wealth, power, and physical appearance. It is better to perceive people by their behaviors, strengths and beliefs than their possessions, abilities and accomplishments. Introspection can help us to have clear visions and overcome worldly desires, disgraces and temptations.
Overcome Obstacles, Enter Eternal Life
Life is full of obstacles; wise people will follow the reliable paths of their predecessors. John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress is a classic God-seeking literature. The protagonist of the book is a Christian who went through many obstacles on the way to the “Celestial City.” He escaped from the “City of Destruction” and crossed the “Slough of Despond”, “Hill Difficulty”, “A Plain Called Ease”, ” Town of Vanity Fair “, “Doubting Castle” and “The River of Death”, finally reached the “Celestial City” and entered eternal life.
After King Solomon experienced the prosperity and vicissitudes of the world, he advices everyone to “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
Originally, life was very simple. As long as we follow the will of our Lord, you will find the way of life. We should have pure faith and seek God throughout our lives.
(Author’s credentials: Bachelor at Overseas Theological Seminary, Master of Pastoral Counseling at Chinese Mission Seminary, Former minister at Hong Kong Christ Evangelical Church and Hiulai Church)
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