12 / Tuesday

But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” —Matthew 4:4

This is week 2 of Lent–our focus is humility through simplicity:

Warm-Up:

Write out the definition of Simplicity:

Simplicity: the quality or condition of being plain or natural. To seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.

Round 1:

Read Matthew 6:31-34:

“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

Round 2:

Consider this quote:

“To be simple is to fix one’s eye solely on the simple truth of God at a time when all concepts are being confused, distorted, and turned upside-down.”—Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Round 3:

Write down what things feel confusing, distorted or upside-down in your life right now. Set a timer for 1 minute to pray about these things.

Burn Out:

Today’s simplicity challenge (suggested by author Richard Foster): Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.

If you haven’t picked something to sacrifice during Lent, this will help you. As you go through your day, ask God to help you distinguish between a real psychological need, like cheerful surroundings, and an addiction. Eliminate any media that you cannot do without. If money has a grip on your heart, give some away and feel freedom. If your phone is a problem, place it in another room before you go to bed. This may require you to buy an actual alarm clock.