This IS NOT Heaven...Heaven is!

Karen lead us in a robust discussion last night about things to beware of when simplifying, and how we know what to keep in our lives, and what to be rid of.  Another aspect of our discussion was the topic of Heaven...and the reminder that this is NOT Heaven! 


Here are some quotes from the book that the ladies especially brought up as meaningful...this list can also serve as a summary of the chapters that we covered:

• "Simplicity is not Heaven; only Heaven is Heaven." pg. 37"
• Jesus instructs us to 'seek first the kingdom of God and His righteaousness, and all these things shall be added to you' Matt. 6:33.  And if we'll live this way, we'll enjoy the most rewarding life possible in this world." pg. 37"
• The blessings of simplicity, sweet as they are, come mixed with thorns and troubles.  Let's not be surprised or disillusioned by them.  The real joy-the unmixed, indescribable, eternal joy-is yet to come.  Pursue simplicity, but press on to the real Heaven." pg.38
• "Besides that, the world, the flesh, and the Devil sinfully complicate all our efforts at simplifying.  This evil trio ensures that even the best and most simple lives still feel many pressures, frustrations, problems, and disappointments." pg. 38
• "Beware, however, when simplifying begins to overgrow its purpose.  Instead of serving the spiritual life, simplifying can gradually take over as master.  For some, simplifying no longer assists their spiritual life; it is their spiritual life." pg. 41
• "Don't forget, however, what simplifying cannot do.  Simplifying your life cannot save your soul." pg. 42
• "Although it promises to make life simpler, progress invariably leads to more complexity and frustration." pg. 43
• "There are only so many details that can be comfortably managed in anybody's life." pg. 43
• "If we want margin back, we are going to have to do something about progress." pg. 43
• "Contentment and simplicity...will help.  Abiding by scriptural teaching concerning money, possessions, education and priorities will help immensely." Richard A. Swenson pg. 44
• And finally... "'Which choices will bring the most glory to God?'" Simplify in such a way, 'that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever' (1 Peter 4:11)" pg. 46

They'll be more on the blog tomorrow on our discussion about, "Progress"...