When Life Gets in the Way of Life

Life is a constant search. God created us to learn, but sometimes we get carried away. We search for new books to read, new influencers to follow, new ways to eat, new ways of getting things done, new apps on our phones, new tools, new shows, new friends, new houses, new toys, new plans, new everything. But the problem with all this is that life gets cluttered. It becomes hard to focus on what really matters. We have to pick what’s important, and often we choose wrong. In the process, we lose sight of the plans God has for us.

Reading the Bible and praying are the two greatest habits we can have. Through them, we grow closer to God, but almost as importantly, we need to make shedding things a habit. Not in the sense that we have to get rid of all our material possessions or make minimalism some kind of sacred practice (it can become an idol in its own right). But we do need to reflect on what is getting in the way of our walk with God on a regular basis.

How many times have I made plans to change the way I live, to be healthier, more productive, or a better person, only to discard them and get caught up in something else? My bookshelf, phone apps, and cluttered computer are a testament to this. It's only by consciously re-evaluating, reflecting, and killing this daily pursuit in my heart to take the reins with my plans that there is any movement forward. In that, I am able to focus on the only true source of peace in my life, and in Him, I can remember what's important. I can recognize how God wants me to live, and in that recognition, all the other things that seemed important become irrelevant. All the things I’ve collected, all the other things I’ve searched for, all my plans become unimportant. That's the simplicity and beauty of Christ. 

It’s the simplicity of seeking Him above all else and his will for our lives. Walking faithfully in obedience and continuously sacrificing and setting down all the apps, influencers, systems, books, plans, and things that get in the way so that we may have our eyes set on the only thing that truly matters. Jesus Christ.