May 4: Insight Post by Kim Feld
Monday Insight Post
by Kim Feld
Downsizing seems to be a topic of conversation everywhere I look these days. Many of us are helping parents downsize, which has prompted us to look at it as well. What do we do with all the STUFF we’ve accumulated over the years? What are the important things to keep versus what can be donated or thrown away? Ultimately, this brings up the question of “treasure,” and the answers are often complicated and emotionally driven.
In Matthew 6, Jesus makes a thought-provoking statement. Take a look at verse 21:
“Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”
Jesus’ words often call us to look within to examine our motivations and desires. The question I am left with is, how am I trying to fill the longings of my heart?
This month, we are looking at the practice of simplicity, which, like all spiritual practices, is personal. Simplicity doesn’t necessarily look the same for everyone, but it does bring an opportunity to examine your internal and external life. Are there areas you need to clear out to make room for God in your life? Our schedules and personal belongings can become so cumbersome that they deplete us rather than give us joy.
Have you ever heard of the 5 WHY exercise? It’s a root cause analysis tool that can help with problem-solving, but I've also found it incredibly helpful for getting to the heart of what is going on within me. You first state the problem or ask yourself a question, answer it, and then ask why 4 additional times. This is a great tool to use for journaling. Here’s a prompt to get you started:
Why am I so busy? OR I am too busy to [fill in the blank]? Asking myself questions like this has often helped me to see changes that would be beneficial. I still have a long way to go to achieve a level of simplicity in my life, but I am committing to focus on it intentionally this month. I hope you will join me.
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
newhope.org