Simplify. The book showed up on my doorstep as I was surrounded by boxes and junk, packing for our interstate move. Simplify. It sat on our counter amidst the crazy schedule of our last month, the goings and comings, "last" dinners with friends, celebratory meals with coworkers, tearful farewells. Simplify. It travelled with me as I begrudgingly left my children behind and flew to an earthly paradise with my husband who attended conference seminars while I read and explored. Simplify. It lingered on my nightstand through all those first lonely, emotional nights in our new home.
I think this book took me the longest to read of practically any book I've read recently. And it's not because it was not good or applicable. It's because it was. A little too much. From time management to friendships, God gave me this book in His perfect timing to gently whisper to me and constantly remind me of what I need to do: Simplify.
In his book, Bill Hybel focuses upon ten aspects of a person's life, and how we can simplify and declutter these areas, leading to a richer, fulfilled life with our family, coworkers, friends and most importantly, God. By becoming more discriminate with our lives, we are able to better fulfill God's calling for us, rather than sacrificing the intangibles for the non-essentials that will deplete us. Each chapter ends with "Action Steps" to give you ideas and help you accomplish the chapter's objective. At the end are two appendices dealing with seeking out a life verse (as a supplement to one of the chapters of the book). The book is filled with practical, applicable tips and one-liners that got me thinking...
- How would I spend my time if I truly believed and lived as if God were in charge of it?
- Knowing that simple decisions have generational legacies, what investment of my time am I taking with my husband, my children and those I love?
- Am I living my life in light of this, with the knowledge that I will one day stand before God for the actions taken in this life?
- Are my excuses really just the surface of underlying character issues that need to be dealt with?
- Am I living my life as though God's current provision for me is not enough? Am I joyfully living within this provision?
- Am I so filled with the grace and love of God that I am not easily provoked when the minor irritations of life beset me? Are they first world problems? Am I in need of a reality check? Am I prioritizing people over convenience?
- Am I fearful and deceived, or am I allowing Christ to reign fully within me, his hand steadying me as I walk on the waters of life?
- Am I thinking in terms of the years for this present life, or in the immensity of the eternal?
- What is God wanting to teach me in my current season of life? Is Christ enough for me?
So I read and reread it's chapters. Underlining. Jotting notes and prayers in the margins. Starring sections. Silencing myself from the voices of the world, listening for the whispers of God amidst my tears. No my life still isn't perfect. No, I still have a long way to go before it's bare-bones and only for Jesus. Yes, I've heard some of this information and advice before, but this book helped to keep things in the forefront of my mind. Yes, I will probably mess up again, and need reminders like what this book offers. But I'm on the right course for this race. And for that I'm thankful.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest, personal review.
