I want to share something that has truly impacted my life: simplicity.
For me, choosing to live a simpler life wasn’t just a nice idea—it became a lifeline for my mental health and peace of mind. It was a way to breathe again. And I want to invite you to think about this with me: what might your life look like if you let go of the unnecessary clutter—both physical and mental—and focused on what truly matters?
I can tell you from my own experience that embracing simplicity has created the space I need to practice the other essential spiritual disciplines. In this blog, I will share why we should embrace simplicity, explore the benefits of a simpler lifestyle, and offer small, practical steps we can take to begin our journey toward living more intentionally.
Why a Simple Life?
More Time for Prayer
I’ve learned that when my life is less cluttered, it’s easier to make space for prayer. My prayer life is far from perfect, and I don’t always know the “right” words to say, but I now have the time to be with God. Simplicity has given me the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and connect with Him in ways I hadn’t been able to before. Even short, honest moments of prayer feel richer and more meaningful because I’m not constantly rushed or distracted.
More Time to Study God’s Word
When I let go of distractions, I finally had the space to study God’s Word without interruption. I could dig deeper into passages, reflect on what God was saying to me, and take my time understanding His truth. I was also able to participate in Bible Study Fellowship, which has helped me structure my daily time with the Lord.
More Time to Serve Others
I noticed that when I’m not stretched thin, I can actually see people’s needs. I can stop, listen, and help without feeling rushed. Simplicity has shown me that serving others flows naturally when I’m not weighed down by unnecessary busyness. I’ve also had time to meet and get to know my neighbors and even start community Bible studies, which has been such a joy and a way to build meaningful connections while serving God.
Greater Generosity
One of the unexpected blessings of simplicity is how it opens the door to greater generosity. When we choose to live within our means and stop chasing more possessions, we discover we actually have more to give—more time, more resources, and more attention. Instead of being weighed down by the pressure to acquire, we’re freed to bless others. Simplicity loosens the grip that “more” has on our hearts and helps us see where God is inviting us to pour into His work and care for the people around us.
True Peace, Joy, and Contentment
This might be the biggest surprise: simplicity has allowed me to experience a peace and contentment I couldn’t find in a chaotic, cluttered life. Honestly, when everything is loud and chaotic, it’s almost impossible to feel joy or rest. Learning to simplify helped me quiet the noise and find the joy that God always intended for me
In the Bible
The Bible really drives this home. Scripture shows us that living a simple, God-centered life is not optional—it’s something to prioritize.
Matthew 6:19–21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…”
Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God…”
1 Timothy 6:6–8 – Godliness with contentment is great gain.
Philippians 4:11–12 – Learning the secret of contentment.
Hebrews 13:5 – Keep your lives free from the love of money.
Proverbs 30:7–9 – “Give me neither poverty nor riches.”
Luke 12:15 – Life is not measured by the abundance of possessions.
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”
Areas to Simplify
As we just read, Scripture makes it clear: living simply is not just a nice suggestion—it’s a lifestyle to be embraced. From my own experience, there are certain areas where simplifying has made the biggest difference.
Home
While Mary and I were renovating our home, we made a conscious decision that our new space would not be full of clutter—no trinkets or excessive furniture. We made sure it was simple yet inviting, a place where we could breathe, rest, and connect with God.
Research consistently shows that clutter increases stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. When our living spaces are chaotic, our minds often feel the same way. A simplified home reduces sensory overload, improves focus, and creates a sense of calm. It becomes easier to relax, pray, think clearly, and engage meaningfully with God and others. A clean, peaceful space serves as a quiet invitation to slow down and breathe.
Possessions
Simplifying my possessions has been a work in progress. I didn’t do it all at once, but little by little, I started letting go of what I didn’t need. I began by giving away books I no longer read or needed. Next, I tackled my filing cabinet, removing papers and documents that were just taking up space. Lately, I’ve been going through my clothes, donating items that no longer fit or that I simply don’t wear.
This has allowed me to be generous with others, giving away what I don’t need so that it can bless someone else.
Schedule
Saying “no” has been one of the hardest but most freeing lessons. I don’t have to say yes to every social invitation, every ministry opportunity, every request. Overcommitting leads to stress and burnout—I’ve lived it! Simplifying my schedule gave me space for prayer, reflection, and the people who matter most.
Work
I’ll be honest: balancing work and life was one of the hardest areas for me when I was still working. I took on every project, traveled extensively, and stayed up late answering emails. I was overweight, out of shape, and spiritually vulnerable. I barely noticed the toll it was taking on my body, my mind, and my spirit.
Now that I am retired, I’ve discovered a new rhythm. I’m able to focus on meaningful activities, serve others, and spend more time in prayer and reflection. Embracing simplicity in this season has given me freedom, energy, and a deeper connection with God. Keeping the Sabbath and setting healthy boundaries in this new chapter has made life more joyful and balanced.
Relationships
As I began evaluating the people I spent time with, I realized I needed to surround myself with those who bring out the best in me—not the ones who complain, gossip, or drain me emotionally. True friends who care about your walk with God are priceless, and limiting toxic relationships has made a huge difference in my peace of mind.
Recreation
This was one of the more challenging areas for me. I realized that social media—Facebook, Solitaires, and endless scrolling—was taking up more of my time than I had noticed. I also became more intentional about the movies, music, and shows I consumed, choosing content that refreshed rather than drained me. Paying attention to how I spent my leisure time has been a subtle but powerful way that simplicity has helped me protect my heart, my mind, and my relationship with God.
Getting Started
Here’s what helped me begin:
1. Start small—pick one area to simplify this week.
2. Ask God to show you what’s cluttering your heart and mind.
3. Practice Sabbath rest—it really refreshes your body and soul.
4. Create quiet pockets in your day for prayer and Scripture.
Tools and Resources
- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry – John Mark Comer. A practical guide to slowing down and resisting the hurried life.
- Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster. A classic book exploring spiritual disciplines, including simplicity.
- The Minimalist Home – Joshua Becker. A helpful resource for simplifying your physical environment.
- The Gift of Simplicity – David Foster. A book exploring how cultivating simplicity is a gift that draws us closer to God.
Closing Thoughts
Simplicity has changed the way I live, think, and even pray. Letting go of clutter—physical, mental, and emotional—has opened up space for peace, clarity, and joy. I want you to know: it’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about creating a life where God can move freely, where your heart can rest, and where the things that truly matter have room to flourish.
Reflection Questions
1. Which area of my life feels the most cluttered, chaotic, or distracting from God right now?
2. How might simplifying my possessions, schedule, or habits create more space for prayer, Scripture, and spiritual growth?
3. What is one small step I can take this week to embrace simplicity and make more room for God in my life?