Less is more!

We read magazines on how to minimize the stuff we need to live simply and thereby happier lives. Decluttering and downsizing have become a way of life for many of all ages. Children downsize when they move out on their own for the very first time and realize they can actually still enjoy life without a lot of unnecessary baggage hanging around taking up much needed space.

Seniors know only too well that there comes the time for us to revisit what we think we need and scale down our possessions so we can live comfortably in smaller surroundings. After all there is stuff and then there is more stuff! Often when we really take stock of what we need as opposed to what we thought we needed, the attitude of “less is more” becomes more attainable and is so freeing!

What does this really mean to us as we take that first step into a brand new, and as-yet uncluttered, new year? What can we do to ensure we are going to be released from all those things that kept us down last year?

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1 (NLT) Are we willing to accept this challenge right now, today?

We need to minimize our reactions to the actions of others, or the words of others, giving these permission to steal our joy for that day. We really need to consider what we find annoying and frustrating in our life and work on replacing these with more pleasant habits and practices. Remember – if we always do what we always did, we will always get the same results! So time for a new perspective!

We need to declutter our minds and refocus on the positive. Accept each new day this year as a gift and make it the best day ever! Understand that when we harbour griefs, despair, anger and malice and carry these into the next day, we are allowing stuff to rob us of enjoying the present moment because we are still bound by yesterday.

We need to take stock of all the excuses we make for the way we handle situations and people; we need to become the persons God knows, and has always known, we are! After all, we are His temple and He should not have to be pushed into a small corner while we are filling up our lives, hearts and minds with negative and discouraging actions, thoughts or words.

This new year, this gift from God to His people, is ours to make it better than ever or keep stagnant and stale. “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.” John 3:30 (NLT)

But we do not have to make these changes all at once depending on our own strength. No! “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” Hebrews 12:2a (NLT)

Are we up for the challenge? Are we willing to personally downsize so our faith shines brighter because the God of all is living in and through us? Then may 2018 be our best year ever!