Mar
25
2007
25
2007
Comfort
Filed under: Apartment, Contentment, Simplifying
“Whenever I go on a trip, I think about all the homes I’ve had & I remember how little has changed about what comforts me.”
Glowing, cozy rooms. Comfortable couches. Hot tea and cookies. Thai food. My Bible. Curling up with a good book or magazine. Great fellowship with friends. These are just a few of the things that “comfort” me…and like the quote says, those things have never changed. No matter how many times we move and how much “stuff” I get rid of, as long as I have a few wonderful things, I am comforted.We are now settled in our new apartment and whenever we are there, I am comfortable and content. A calmness comes over me when I sit in our living room and drink it all in. Here are more photos…come take the tour!
However, none of these good feelings can compare to the comfort and peace I receive from Jesus Christ. But so often, I look to the “created comforts” of this world to bring me those feelings…my home, my rituals, my friends and family, my hobbies. While I adore living in a space that I love and in a town that I love…would I still be contented and praise Him in different circumstances? I’ve been pondering that lately. I have a feeling that this is why my emotions start to go crazy when my house is a mess and things are in disarray. A clean house is always nice, but I tend to let it affect me deeper than it should. Can I be full of joy even as I clean up the mess?
True joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness can come and go with circumstances and moods…but joy comes from Christ. Knowing that ultimately, no matter what happens in my life, I will spend eternity with Him. Paul had this mastered…here is what he wrote as he was sitting in jail.
“I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.”
Philippians 4:12 (The Message)
I am so encouraged by this verse…and I like this particular paraphrase a lot. I cannot say that I have conquered the “wants” in my life. I have found that when I am not spending time meditating on God’s word…those wants seem to multiply out of control. When I am disciplined and reading daily, I am better able to demonstrate self-control (or Jesus-control!) over my desires and wants…especially for material things.
Knowing that we can have joy despite what is going on around us is transforming. It frees me from the worry, wanting, and fear that come with daily life. I am enjoying the amazing blessings that God has given us…but I know that I can’t place my hope or confidence in my apartment, relationships, or my things. My comfort and hope comes from Him.
Posted by Sara @ 6:35 pm | Leave a Comment
30
2007
what a great cozy place you have created! i love it.
31
2007
Yay! Finally pics of the house. You are soooo creative and inspiring. Thanks for blogging.
3
2007
sara, i’ve enjoyed reading your blog for a month or so now, and love your insights and your new apt.! God has been putting this verse in Phil. in my path for a few days now, so i was very excited to read it and be reminded again that my contentment doesn’t rely on my ability to take care of everything (which i can’t), but only on Christ’s sufficiency in all things. i am learning a lot from you and others God is using to bring me to a simplified life, not because of eliminating “stuff” but as i turn my focus to Him. hope you have a blessed day out there in beautiful MT!
10
2007
Your home is wonderful and your decorating style is full of warmth and comfort. I love it. I enjoyed my first time to your blog and I will subscribe. Have a great day.
14
2007
I love the Message translation of the Bible.
18
2007
Okay, you totally put me to shame. I was boo hooing (not really, but complaining on the inside) about the fact that my condo is only 900 square feet ! And mind you, I am single, so its just me and my dog.
I LOVE your place and you have given me a new interest for fixing mine up and an appreciation for God and what He has blessed me with!
Thank you!!
Leigh
3
2009
Sara, thank you so much for this post, but more importantly for your blog. I know i’m commenting on an age old post here but just wanted to thank you for your spirit and optimism in the midst of a pessimistic world! Thank you! its the breath of fresh air we all need. ALSO – wherever did you get that wooden box that’s serving as a stand for your plant. I ADORE it! and would love to have one!
3
2009
Elizabeth…thanks
the wooden box is a family heirloom. It’s VERY old!
4
2009
Figures! I love old stuff so i should have known there was no chance i’d be able to just dash somewhere and pick one up! ha. thanks for your response… Stay warm:)