Day 152 - Simple and Beautiful

"It was simple and beautiful."

There are many things in life that are beautiful because of their complexity. The systems of nature can be so complex that they blow the mind. 

Some things are beautiful because of their diversity. I love the human population and the cultures of the world largely for their diversity. It is wonderful that we aren't all the same or it would be really boring. 

Some things are beautiful because of their variety. When I look at the different kinds of the same thing it blows my mind. How many types of birds are there? 

Some thing are beautiful because of their simplicity. Like the gospel. Jesus came for us, died for us, and because He lives we live by faith in Him. That's it. It is a simple gospel and it is beautiful. 

Other things in life that are simple can be beautiful as well. Like cold water on a hot day. A child with a bucket and hand shovel on the beach building sand castles. The look of love in a husband and wife's eyes moments after they said 'I do'. All simple and beautiful. 

I appreciate complexity, diversity and variety but there is something about simplicity. Maybe it is more memorable or more easily grasped. Maybe it just wasn't meant to be cluttered with lots of other things that distract from the one thing. Whatever it is, enjoy the beauty of simplicity. 

Do you enjoy complexity, diversity, variety and simplicity? What are some simple things in life you enjoy? 

Day 99 - Folly and Belief

"Jess met a person who was a Christian by title but not attending church. This person also spoke of a friend who is believes that sound waves will help you if you can be still enough to hear them. They said that they didn't believe in these things and yet when in need of help to find a lost animal or wanting direction called this friend to pray and seek good vibes for the animal or for guidance. Their actions tell the true story that they indeed do believe in these things. In the same way Spurgeon wrote of the people at the pool waiting for the angel to stir the water and yet could have looked to Jesus for their healing. They were content with the pool side instead of the side of the savior. May we seek Him in truth and not follow the err of the world's folly!"

Too many people mix their Christian faith with popular worldly beliefs. This mixture waters down faith and the power of the gospel. 

The longer I am a Christian and the more I read the Bible the more I believe God at His Word. It can be taken at face value. It is a simple gospel. We could sum up the Bible with the words God's creation, Stan's deception, the fall of man, Jesus death, burial and resurrection, our restoration. 

I like how Paul told the Corinthian church that while he was with them he was determined to know nothing but Christ and Him crucified. If all we had was a simple gospel without the rest of the Bible it would still be enough to save, deliver and restore people. Let's seek Jesus the Healer, the Lover, the Restorer, the Deliverer, the Counselor, the Teacher...God's Word to you and me. 

How can we guard ourselves from straying from the truth? What are some ways we can focus on the simple truths of God's Word?