Clearing the Clutter
Happy New Year! For some reason I’m having a harder time finding my footing in January. I feel like there are a lot more advertisements for planners, home gyms, diets and even home renovations. While I’m sure these have been around in years past there is something about all these things that brings an unrest to me this year. As I attempted to process this uneasy feeling and ask why now, I began to realize I feel more protective of people this year. According to a CNBC survey, around 50% of people spend over 500 dollars a year to pursue new goals. I wonder how much of this is because we are lured into all the marketing…the flashy colors, fun scenery, and nice things. While none of this is inherently bad, most of us do not stop to ask questions before making impulse purchases. I should say well done to all the major advertising companies around the world, but my heart isn’t behind that. It’s not that it is bad to want to improve on our life, but I find myself constantly fighting an urge to want the next “best thing.”
God wants us to think through situations before acting. In Luke 14:28-30, Jesus reminds us that we should plan and look ahead. “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?” Jesus is not saying not to act, but rather encouraging us to think through our decisions before acting. Rather than click “purchase” at the first commercial we see on Facebook or TV, we need to weigh our options and clearly define the end goal. This can be hard to do especially when photos can be so convincing yet so deceptive. Something about our eyes seeing something equates to believing. Does it work like that for you? When I know fully that photoshop is a real thing, it is so hard for me to see a picture and convince myself that the picture isn’t real. Can you relate?
The truth is there is only one thing that will bring satisfaction and that is Jesus. This may sound weird to those of you who already believe in Him because it obvious, but I constantly have to remind myself that seeking Jesus is the only thing that satisfies. If that thought slips for even a moment, I find myself chasing earthly things so quickly and then discontent and anxiety can creep in. But when I am grounded in the truth that Jesus is the only way, it becomes less of a struggle to let go of material things. Over time a process of surrender occurs, and the emotional and physical clutter begin to clear. It is so much easier to stay organized and on track when we are focused on the Lord rather than the world. 1 Corinthians 14:33 talks about how God is a God of peace not disorder. He desires for us to have calm hearts and a clear mind. When we operate from this place, we are the most effective for his Kingdom.
The past week I cleaned out most of the closets in our home. I found things that we have not used in years. It felt freeing to let go of all of that clutter. While it’s not always easy to clean things out, it makes room for new things. This can also be true of our emotional clutter. God tells us in Ephesians 4:31-32 to “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” God reminds us that we need to be kind to everyone. After all, wouldn’t you agree that having negative thoughts and feelings towards others is more self-destructive. It is a cheap attempt for the enemy to rob our joy, so don’t let him. This year my main goal is to keep my focus on the Lord. When I do that, I am certain that everything else will fall into place.
Father, thank you for taking out burdens. For allowing us to rest at your feet. Lord, reveal to each of us what it is we can do to further your kingdom. Help us to keep our focus on you. In Jesus name, Amen.