1st off, Simplicity is both a discipline and a grace, it's a privilege to be able to practice, but it's not easy to practice. At the heart of Simplicity is a paradox, living simple isn't simple, it is difficult. It goes against the grain of our culture, and we are constantly pulled in the direction of complexity.

What do I mean it's a discipline? I mean, it takes consistent work over a long period of time. You have to chase it, follow it's direction, and abandon other options. It is limiting in the sense that you have placed limitations on your available options. Navy Seal Team 3 commander Jocko Willink , popularized the idea that discipline = freedom. However, I initially found this idea from Richard Foster's book Celebration of Discipline from 1978, which was also the first book I read that brought up this idea of Simplicity. So, even though Simplicity is a discipline, it also brings immense freedom.

What do I mean it's a grace? I mean that it is a gift from God, it is a gift that is given freely, and when accepted, it brings more freedom. When we live simply, we are living and loving as God designed. There's a beautiful old song " 'tis a gift to be simple, 'tis a gift to be free" that plays in my head every time I think of Simplicity as a grace.

Now, before we get into practices and how to live a more simple life, I think it is important to note what Richard Foster warns us of in his book Freedom of Simplicity (which I HIGHLY recommend). He says: "Simplicity is an inward reality that can be seen in an outward lifestyle. We must have both; to neglect either end of this tension is disastrous." Let's not put the cart in front of the horse. Any good practice of Simplicity will start internally and work it's way externally. Jesus warns that those who only polish the external, neglect the internal, and live a hypocritical life, their greed and selfishness hide behind a thin mask.

So let's start with the internal. First week, detox. Yep, the first thing is a cleanse, we've got to get a clear mind, body, and spirit. Jesus said it's not what comes in that defiles, but it is what comes out (of the heart) that defiles. And in order to make sure our heart is in good condition we have to limit what comes in. Surprise! Another paradox.

For additional study and resources check out:

Freedom of Simplicity by Richard Foster

Bridgetown’s series on Simplicity

The More of Less by Joshua Becker

Enough by Adam Hamilton

The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker

Soulful Simplicity by Courtney Carver

Essentialism by Greg Mckeown

Trail Life by Ray Jardine

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