May 22: Insight Post by Karen Heal
Friday Insight Post
by Karen Heal
When I started preparing for this BRP post, I have to admit the first place my mind went is to a lifestyle magazine I like to read. Real Simple, “stands out for its unique approach to simplifying life's complexities.” Simplicity is a well-curated living room. Yet, we innately understand that striving for simplicity in this way may lead to more complication. (It certainly leads to more shopping.) How can I seek true simplicity?
Jesus tells us in his Sermon on the Mount: "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously and he will give you everything you need." Matthew 6:33 (NLT) Then I usually add, “Yes, and I have to plan well and set things up so He can give me what I need.” Somehow I learned that “leaving it up to Jesus” is irresponsible, that He’s not my servant. I believed that I needed to do the work myself if I wanted His help. Instead, what would it look like for me just to leave it up to Jesus?
I believe Jesus asks that I honor Him (by preparing responsibly with His guidance), while at the same time, mentally leaving the mechanics and the outcome fully to Him. Praying in contentment can help with this. Then “simply” trusting Jesus allows Him to work in me and to share His blessings with those in my life.
But that process doesn’t come naturally. As Rusty wrote on Wednesday, it requires a deliberate commitment on our part. God’s promises are real, but we must claim them. When we participate in His promises, we see He is always enough and more than enough. It’s that simple.
Karen Heal
Unbound Team Member and Children's Ministry Volunteer
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org