Today was nothing special, but it was productive.  The weather here has been rainy and extremely humid, so it was a good excuse to stay indoors and in our pajamas.  And an even better reason to clean the house, which has been sadly neglected over the summer months.  I’m talking baseboards, floors, dusting….all of the things I hate doing, but appreciate when they’re done.  I even went as far as to paint some nightstands in our garage that have been waiting patiently to be completed.  So, for a few short minutes, it will look as though I actually did something today.

One thing that I love is decorating our house.  I love the feeling of new “things”; whether it be curtains or just small accessories.  Anything that can freshen up a room or give it a new spin is sure to grab my attention.  Years ago, I found myself wanting to redecorate a room (or two) in our home, but lacked the money to fund my wants.  So, instead, I adopted this simple notion…..”do what you can with what you have”.  Now, I’m not saying that cured me of wanting to shop, but it did however, gratify my immediate need for change.  Just by cleaning a cluttered room or throwing away some unused items, my surroundings began to look different.  Where I once noticed lack, I now discovered hidden potential.

I was reminded of this concept today, as I was scrubbing my bathroom floor.  Only this time, it seemed to ring true spiritually.  So often we look for new teachings or popular trends when it comes to our faith.  We want the latest fads in the church or even in our personal walks with the Lord.  All the while, I believe Christ is calling us to notice what’s already there.  He’s calling us back to the basics.  I know I have been guilty of this many times in my life.  I have been so distracted by searching for the will of God and what the future may hold, that I’ve missed out on what He’s already provided.  We overlook all of the daily opportunities He sends our way in hopes of something better around the corner.  Spiritually shopping for what gratifies our flesh, instead of simply cleaning house and putting the necessities in order.

In todays world, we have so many activities and responsibilities that demand our attention.  Family, jobs, bills, health, education, sports, entertainment, and even ministry.  And if we aren’t careful, we’ll hear their shouting over the voice of the Lord.  Too many times, I have complicated my walk with Christ.  I try to add to it or fix it up a little nicer;  when the truth is, I have no idea what I’m doing.  It’s like having a professional decorator come to my home and then I tell them what to do.  I’m not a professional.  And I’m certainly not God.

So, the old saying “less is more” makes sense.  Christianity isn’t as hard as we make it sometimes.  And I want my focus to be on Jesus instead of what He can offer me.  Sure, I believe we should be expectant and work hard for His kingdom.  But I also believe we shouldn’t strive for any of it.  His will for us unfolds as we build our relationship.  As we spend time in His presence and plant our feet in His Word.  That alone is what sustains us and guides our path.  Christ is what beautifies our lives and adds color to our white walls.  He works behind the scenes, on our behalf.  Transforming what was once outdated and fading, into something new and bright.

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these       things will be given to you as well.”