It started a few summers ago and has come lately like a crescendo of noise in my brain and now I am near fully obsessed with thoughts.
Several summers ago I read the book “Quaker Summer.” It’s a book about a woman who realizes she has every earthly possession and yet feels empty inside.
Then, when, I read Acts 2 and learned of the first church goers who sold their belongings and gave to other people as they saw fit. (Side Note : I actually did this. I sold a bunch of stuff on Ebay and at various friends garage sales and put away the money temporarily in order to gave it away as I saw a need. This was such a rewarding experience. You should try it and see for yourself! )
And, about 6 months ago I watched “Faith Like Potatoes” and seriously I have not been the same since.
The crescendo of noise in my brain really began to intensify.
And, then recently, it came to a much higher pitch when I began reading “Kisses From Katie”
I am sickened at how much stuff I have. I now loathe having so much stuff.
And, feel stuck.
I spend way to much time organizing and cleaning all my stuff. I am a slave to my stuff. Ugggh.
But, at the same time I was reflecting on Deuteronomy 24:19-22 and it talks about how God gives us what we need. And, if we have abundance we are to give it to the orphans and widows and those who need it. It does not say use every bit of it for my own purposes. It says ‘don’t use it all… Leave some for those who need it.’ There is much need in this world. And, I am asking myself about this — do I leave some for those who need it? I am so blessed! A house, cars, choices on the food I will eat, toys & electronics, running water and heat. I have everything I need. I have abundance! I don’t need any more stuff. But, too often I have no resources left to give.
One of my biggest fears is that I will have to give away EVERYTHING and then have no money to pay my bills. What popped into my head is this…. It says in Deuteronomy 24 that I need to be mindful of others and leave some for them. I am comforted by this. God has blessed me and it is ok to enjoy it and use it. However, if I am going to be a true Christ follower I need to make sure I am not greedy and hoarding and be sure to give to others as well. That is how God designed it. In fact, He commanded it. His wisdom is greater than mine and I trust that there is a good reason why a “rich” person would be held responsible to give to others.
OK, that’s all I got. I am so excited to see where else God is going to take this. More than thought… but action.
Blessings to you & your family. I pray for a prosperous New Year!