Welcome! As we walk this journey of faith, it’s vital to cultivate spiritual disciplines that deepen our connection with God. This year, we’re shifting our focus from routine habits to intentional, sacred rhythms—practices that invite God to move powerfully in our lives. These rhythms aren’t just checklists; they are pathways that open our hearts to transformation and renewal. Join us as we explore ways to make room for God’s presence and grow in grace, purpose, and intimacy with Him.
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Memory Verse Challenge:
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33
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Spiritual Discipline – Simplicity
Practicing Faith Through Spiritual Disciplines
Spiritual disciplines are ways we can actively live out our faith every day. They serve as tools to help us grow in our knowledge of God, submit to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, and align our lives with God’s will. Think of them as tools that help us “tune” our hearts to see the world and His kingdom through His eyes. These practices—prayer, Scripture reading, worship, service, and more—aren’t new. Believers have embraced these sacred habits since the earliest days of the church, following the example and teachings of Jesus in the Gospels. By intentionally practicing these disciplines, we cultivate a deeper connection with God and allow His Spirit to shape us more fully.
Simplicity – Seeking God’s Kingdom First Simplicity calls us to live with contentment and resist the pull of materialism. Jesus reminds us that our true treasures are in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). By embracing simplicity, we free ourselves to pursue God wholeheartedly and manage our resources wisely. In practice, simplicity can mean owning less, letting go of what we don’t need, or setting limits on what we acquire. It can also mean prioritizing our time and energy, focusing on what truly matters, and learning to do less with greater purpose.
The Challenge of Spiritual Simplicity
Across the world, movements like simple living and slow living encourage reducing commitments, possessions, and clutter to enjoy a more intentional life. While well-meaning, these approaches often focus on self-improvement rather than drawing closer to God. The spiritual discipline of simplicity is counter-cultural, especially in a society that prizes greed and fear over contentment (Luke 12:15; 1 Timothy 6:10). True simplicity begins in the heart, nurtured by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and flows outward into every part of life through prayer (Philippians 4:6-7), contentment (Hebrews 13:5), and a biblical understanding of work (Colossians 3:23). Simplicity isn’t just about saving money or avoiding excess—hoarding can be just as harmful as overspending (Ecclesiastes 5:10). Our security is not in wealth but in God’s loving care (Psalm 118:6; Matthew 6:19-21). A close relationship with God allows the discipline of simplicity to take root and flourish.
Simplicity and Kingdom Living
In Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus teaches that followers should not accumulate earthly treasures but embrace simplicity, living with less to protect their hearts from materialism and to give more freely to God’s work. Scripture frequently warns about the dangers of wealth:
- Achan’s greed led to judgment in Israel (Joshua 7).
- Solomon’s wealth contributed to his spiritual decline (1 Kings 11).
- Ananias and Sapphira suffered for deceit over possessions (Acts 5).
- Demas abandoned the faith, loving the present world, including its riches (2 Timothy 4:10).
Christ calls us to live with open hands, trusting God to provide, and using our resources for His Kingdom.
Seek First the Kingdom of God
Jesus commands us to make seeking God’s Kingdom the lens through which we live (Matthew 6:33). This isn’t just another priority—it shapes everything we do.
- Honoring God in our relationships and work reflects seeking His Kingdom.
- Our lives should not revolve around material needs; doing so leads to worry and distraction from God’s purposes.
- Replace worry with passion for God’s Kingdom, surrendering lesser desires for the greatest desire—God’s will.
“What this verse demands is, therefore, a commitment to find and to do the will of God, to ally oneself totally with his purpose. And this commitment must come first.” – France When God’s Kingdom comes first, everything else falls into place. Provision, peace, and the fulfillment of our highest purpose—fellowship with Him—follow. Choosing to seek God’s Kingdom is a lifelong decision, reinforced or denied daily.
Practicing Spiritual Simplicity
How do we live this out?
By seeking God’s Kingdom in every area of life (Matthew 6:33). As we do, we experience the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), and simplicity flows naturally from our hearts.
Practical Applications:
- Declutter: Remove possessions or commitments that distract you from God.
- Intentional Living: Prioritize activities that align with your faith; learn to say no to what doesn’t matter.
- Focus on God: Spend time in prayer, reflection, and meditation to keep your heart aligned with Him.
- Generosity: Recognizing that everything we have comes from God and cultivate a spirit of sharing.
Conclusion
The spiritual discipline of simplicity is more than reducing possessions—it’s about cultivating a deeper relationship with God. With intentional effort and a heart focused on Him, simplicity leads to peace, freedom, and a life centered on what truly matters. By letting go of excess, we open ourselves to fully experience God’s Kingdom in every aspect of life.
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I pray that you will continue to be conscious of God’s presence throughout the month as you journal His Word and that you will sense His presence in every area of your life. 
You can download the Scripture Journaling Plan here: https://charitymaeprosper.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SD-Simplicity.pdf
References:
- Bible Verses: Acts 2:42, Genesis 2:18, Hebrews 10:24–25, Galatians 6:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 John 3:18, Acts 4:32–35, Hebrews 3:12-13
- Books:
- Life Application Study Bible: King James Version. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2004. Print
- Matthew Henry’s Commentary of the Whole Bible: Matthew Henry, 1662-1714 (1991)
- 12 Essential Spiritual Disciplines Every Christian Should Practice | ChurchPlants
- Why Is Fellowship Important to Our Spiritual Growth: Strengthening Bonds for a Deeper Faith Journey
- What is True Biblical Fellowship? – Raising Everyday Disciples
