I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am in to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:10-13, ... [Read More]
What Distracts You?
Eons ago ... January 19th, to be exact, I began a sharing the ten controlling principles of simplicity as outlined in Richard Foster's Celebration of Discipline. We should have completed that study a month ago ... but sometimes living gets in the way of blogging and that has definitely been the case the past several weeks. Today, we'll finally wrap up those principles. Shun anything that distracts you from seeking first the kingdom of God. (95) I think a quick word study might be ... [Read More]
Yes, It Really Does Matter Where You Shop!
A few weeks ago we were in Charleston and I wanted one of those gorgeous handwoven seagrass baskets from The Market. But since the teensy ones were around $25, I did not purchase one. I did however, purchase this one from the store at Hyman's Seafood. Made in Vietnam, this basket looks very similar to the ones available at The Market ... but only cost me $12. It's perfect for holding all my stationery. I also bought this etched stone {from India} for only $4. Both of these items, as ... [Read More]
Simple Living = Simple Speaking
Let's see, we started this examination of Richard Foster's controlling principles of simplicity on January 19 ... there are ten principles so I should have wrapped up the posts last week. I've learned another lesson about simplicity and blogging: When life gets crazy, roll with it and hope your readers are still around!! Today, we'll look at the eighth principle outlined by Foster in Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth: Obey Jesus' instructions about plain, honest ... [Read More]
“NO Payment until 2013!”
Cars. Furniture. Jewelry. Appliances. Basically, anything you want. Buy now, pay later. Good deal or bad idea? As we {finally!} get back into Richard Foster's ten controlling principles of simplicity, we are at number seven: Look with healthy skepticism at all "buy now, pay later" schemes." (93) I'm not going to launch into a financial management diatribe because I assure you, I am no Dave Ramsey! But, as I've been praying through a simpler life and contemplating what simplicity looks ... [Read More]
I Need to Hug a Tree
Last night my husband and I watched (sort of) Avatar. After watching, he commented on Facebook that while it wasn't one of his favorite movies, he felt like he needed to go outside and hug a tree. Though he was being sarcastic, his statement made me think ... When was the last time I was caught up in the wonder of God's creation? Richard Foster's sixth controlling principle of the discipline of simplicity points to this idea: Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation. My daughter and I ... [Read More]
