Don’t be obsessed with getting more material things. Be relaxed with what you have. Heb 13:5 (MSG)
We’ve all come across a person who, despite having more than enough, still bargains down the price, to their gain and the seller’s detriment. It’s a condition (and dilemma) we can all wrestle with. It’s an ailment, that grips the host with a fear of missing out, often causing them to value THINGS above PEOPLE.
This stronghold takes root in our hearts and is often perpetuated by the conditioning of living in our everyday, western culture. Society is not to blame though. It’s our choice how we choose to behave and what we do with our resources; financially, physically, mentally and emotionally.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned of late is to let go of material stuff. Often, when I drove down the street, I found myself internally envying those living in big houses and driving fancy cars. Being a father and husband of our household, I feel this instinctive drive to provide the very best and if I was truly honest, it caused me an amount of quiet anxiety.
It’s honourable, but it can get unhealthy and if left unchecked I'd find myself clinging to the importance of having money over believing that God provides all the needs of me and our family.
This verse says, “Be relaxed with what you have.”
Being relaxed indicates slowing down; smelling the roses and living fully in this moment. Not living in fear that you’ll miss out, but being aware and grateful for every good thing you do have.
I’ve discovered there’s a bounty of treasure available in this moment but when we live for tomorrow’s pleasure, we miss the abundance and richness of today.
I began to bring my attention to the current moment and noticed little details and subtleties in my kids I’d never seen before. Simplicities and comforts of my small house that, in the past, annoyed me, and a greater beauty in who my wife is, and not just only in what she looks like.
I don’t know the answer to happiness, but I do know that when I slowed down and stressed less about what I didn’t have, I felt happier about what I did have… and noticed how much I actually had.
Try and see if it works for you…
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