Keep it Simple

Sometimes I think I make life too difficult for myself. After being a single parent for so many years, and being responsible for everything, I still have the occasional tendency to take on too much, do too much, and fret too much. Can you relate?

Think of the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus was visiting their home and Martha was running around doing all kinds of hospitality things and complaining that Mary wasn't helping. Boy, have I been there. Mary, on the other hand, was enjoying the company of their esteemed guest. Instead of "doing", Mary was "being".

This past fall, I was dealing with a health issue and didn't have much energy to do much of anything. Then one day I heard His voice. "Be still and know that I am God." (Ps. 46:10) I realized it really doesn't matter to God how much I "do" anymore. I can only "do" by His grace anyway. "Seek ye first the kingdom of heaven and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).

Living a life that pleases God is simple. It boils down to two words which I am sure we have all heard before: "Trust and obey." That's it. Trust God and do what he says to do. Now that doesn't mean forsaking all my responsibilities, but when I feel anxious, overwhelmed, or overtired, I know I am doing too much.

How about you? What signs show up in your life that remind you to "be" instead of "do"? What are a few ways you can simplify your life? Write and let me know and

Until next time, keep looking up!

Ariel Paz