Being Simple, Being Relaxed
Alice Cheng
City people are physically and mentally burned out from being overloaded in their daily lives. Complexity causes anxiety but simplicity helps us relax. Simplicity is an attitude, a sentiment, and even a kind of grace. It simplifies and lets go of things of our prior knowledge.
Enjoy freedom & space; don’t focus on materialistic things
For the sake of health, take less salt, sugar, oil, and preservatives. Shopping requires what is “needed”, “useful” and “durable”. The storage strategies are: “Having less is better than too much”, “Creative Substitution”, “No new purchases until the old are consumed”, “Storage and match”. Do not shop casually, avoid being wasteful, overstocking and confusion, so that you can enjoy more freedom and space.
Enjoy contentment & generosity; don’t focus on wealth
Materials and money are gifts from above, and being able to enjoy them is grace and pleasure. Good use of money to care and donate is a virtue. Jesus taught people not to accumulate wealth because it will lead to waste, deterioration, devaluation, or loss. Taking no heed of wealth makes it easier to share with others, to help the poor, and to enjoy “giving is more blessed than receiving” (Acts 20:35).
Enjoy the nature & life; let go of hectic lifestyles
Being too busy makes people restless. Simple life is to let go of your tight routines so that you can turn off your phones, rest, stroll, exercise, and enjoy your leisure time. Nature is soothing, refreshing, and inspiring. The Bible is full of images of nature appreciation and life, such as climbing, stargazing, observing the clouds, watching the flowers, and bird watching, as well as clapping and singing, drumming and dancing, and the rhythm of eating and drinking.
Enjoy trusting & resting in God; let go of worries
Positive planning comes from rational calculation or sentimental concern. Malignant anxiety reflects inner greed, fear, and manipulation. Excessive thinking is not only to no avail, but also affects your mood and sleep. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
Get rid of guilt & hatred; let go of bitterness
Guilt and hatred only traps you in darkness. The Lord’s Prayer teaches us to repent so we can be forgiven by grace. Therefore we need to forgive others so we may enjoy this peace of heart.
Obey God’s will; let go of lustful desires
Materialism and liberalism only beautifies the indulgence of lustful desires. Many people become addicted to sex websites when being alone. The bible has clearly pointed out the truth and limitations of lust. “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”(1 John 2:16-17) A simple life is relaxing as long as put aside the materialistic things, the hassles, worries, inner struggles, and lustful desires. Look up to eternity. Simplicity crystalizes the center and the Lord of your life. Enjoy your inner freedom and abundance. Live a life of joy and balance; practice compassion and justice. “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”(Luke 12:15)
You must be logged in to post a comment.