Does minimalism sound like one of these non-Christian fads that you need to avoid to be a true believer?
Does the paring down of possessions even have any place in a Biblical understanding of stewardship and generosity?
We’re diving into all that, and more, in today’s episode on Biblical minimalism: where that non-consumerist template really came from.
Minimalism and generosity
You see, minimalism, generosity, and avoiding greed are all over the Bible.
So I don’t have any problem whatsoever with teaching minimalism – the pursuit of simplicity – alongside other Biblical aspects like purpose, calling, and worthiness.
(In fact, some Christian spiritual traditions focus heavily on simplicity as part of their spiritual practice!)
God calls us to give generously, value others more highly than ourselves, and not let money be our master. Those are all things that fit into the daily practice and pursuit of minimalism as moms.
Things aren’t our master; He is.
Money is not our master
Now, let’s be honest, most of us mainly want minimalism for our kids!
In fact, I’d say that once you’ve got your consumerism mentality reoriented to what the Bible teaches, you have a mandate to teach your kids how to think about things and stuff in a God-honoring way.
It’s all part of how we’re to teach them what it means to live with God as our master, not things. Money. Fame. Possessions.
They’re not our master; He is.
Minimalism as lived-out values
So there’s nothing wrong with a Christian being a minimalist – in fact, I think it’s a great way to add on that practical pursuit of *not* going after worldly goods.
Because sometimes we know the Biblical principles, but just aren’t sure how to apply them to daily life. Only the church setting.
(Oh sure, we tithe and give to our church…. That’s all I’m supposed to do with my money and things, right?)
I think minimalism gives us the chance to really live out our faith, choose our values for our family, and make sure that every single thing in the home is actively serving that purpose.
Whether that be mission trips to Namibia with the whole family, living leaner than you have to so you can donate generously, or having a huge home with plenty of space for hosting missionaries on fund raising furloughs.
The possibilities are endless – because every family is unique.
So what’s your take on Christian minimalism? What would be your God-centered why for reducing possessions?
Take a moment (or more than a moment) to journal on that today.
What you come up with is going to change the course of your family for good.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going, living as Christian minimalists!
