The chapter I've come back to most since starting this book is the one that discusses the discipline of simplicity. I'm drawn to and hunger for this kind of simplicity.
"The Christian Discipline of simplicity is an inward reality that results in an outward life-style."
The Inward Reality of Simplicity:
"Seeking first God's kingdom and the righteousness, both personal and social, of that kingdom is the only thing that can be central in the Spiritual Discipline of simplicity."
"Freedom from anxiety is one of the inward evidences of seeking first the kingdom of God. The inward reality of simplicity involves a life of joyful unconcern for possessions."
"If what we have we receive as a gift, and if what we have is to be cared for by God, and if what we have is available to others, then we will possess freedom from anxiety. This is the inward reality of simplicity."
The Outward Expression of Simplicity:
"Every attempt to give specific application to simplicity runs the risk of a deterioration into legalism. It is a risk, however, that we must take..."
1. Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status.
2. Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.
3. Develop a habit of giving things away.
4. Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry.
5. Learn to enjoy things without owning them.
6. Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation.
7. Look with a healthy skepticism at all "buy now, pay later" schemes.
8. Obey Jesus' instructions about plain, honest speech. "Let what you way be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil" (Matt. 5:37).
9. Reject anything that breeds the oppression of others.
10. Shun anything that distracts you from seeking first the kingdom of God.
Richard Foster further explains each of these outward expressions in his book, if you're interested.
Quotes from Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
"The Christian Discipline of simplicity is an inward reality that results in an outward life-style."
The Inward Reality of Simplicity:
"Seeking first God's kingdom and the righteousness, both personal and social, of that kingdom is the only thing that can be central in the Spiritual Discipline of simplicity."
"Freedom from anxiety is one of the inward evidences of seeking first the kingdom of God. The inward reality of simplicity involves a life of joyful unconcern for possessions."
"If what we have we receive as a gift, and if what we have is to be cared for by God, and if what we have is available to others, then we will possess freedom from anxiety. This is the inward reality of simplicity."
The Outward Expression of Simplicity:
"Every attempt to give specific application to simplicity runs the risk of a deterioration into legalism. It is a risk, however, that we must take..."
1. Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status.
2. Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.
3. Develop a habit of giving things away.
4. Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry.
5. Learn to enjoy things without owning them.
6. Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation.
7. Look with a healthy skepticism at all "buy now, pay later" schemes.
8. Obey Jesus' instructions about plain, honest speech. "Let what you way be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil" (Matt. 5:37).
9. Reject anything that breeds the oppression of others.
10. Shun anything that distracts you from seeking first the kingdom of God.
Richard Foster further explains each of these outward expressions in his book, if you're interested.
Quotes from Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
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