Simplify

Recently I had the opportunity to teach a 3 week series at The Element, the student service at my church. The title of the series was Simplify. I just have to tell you...it kicked my butt. The purpose of the series was to take a look at the over busy, hectic pace of life that we all seem to be living; or dying in if you take a closer look. Our culture not only makes it acceptable for us to live a life with no margin, it actually encourages it. We talked about how every time we say "yes" to something, we're forced to say "no" to something else.

God used this opportunity to call me to simplify my own life and pursue a life that reflects Psalm 23. Let me just say that it's not easy. The idea is simple (no pun intended) but the actual changes require a whole new heart attitude and mindset as to where I find my fulfillment. I MUST find contentment in God's opinion of me. I MUST be willing to be misunderstood when saying "no" to good things. I MUST be driven by the desire to choose the BEST things and define which things are best by God's word.

So, what does this look like in Johnny's life? I've had to say no to some good things where I knew I could step in and help and my help was needed but in order to do it I would have had to say "no" to my family. I've had to say "no" to consistantly working on my day off. I've begun saying "yes" to more quiet time, more study time, more gym time, and more rest.

Whenever you say "no" to someone or something, there's an initial "let down" or dissapointment with all parties involved. But that doesn't last long. What you end up with long term is a sustained healthy schedule. Whenever you say "yes" to something out of obligation, there's an initial "yippie..you're the best" kind of feeling that you get from parties involved. That doesn't last long, though. What you end up with long term is a commitment that you are now obligated to by your own word.
Doug fields said it best, "The wedding I said yes to a year ago was an easy yes. Now that the wedding has arrived and it conflicts with my daughter's soccer tournament, It's a very hard yes."

So I'm seeking to simplify my life and bring it into better focus. I'm changing my priorities to bring better focus to my efforts. Tim Elmore teaches that the only difference between damaging floods and useful rivers is one thing, "Focus". Floods might not be very deep. But, they're wide and untamed and damage everything in their path. Rivers are focused, can be used to generate energy, can be deverted to bring life to barren fields, and even be an enjoyable thing when rafting or boating. I want to live on the river...not get overtaken by the flood.

More later...
Johnny