Simplicity and Frugality 

"When we are truly in this interior simplicity our whole appearance is franker, more natural. This true simplicity . . . makes us conscious of a certain openness, gentleness, innocence, gaiety, and serenity, which is charming when we see it near to and continually, with pure eyes. O, how amiable this simplicity is! Who will give it to me? I leave all for this. It is the Pearl of the Gospel."--Francois Fenelon

Memory Verse: Matthew 6:33.

Introduction: We've all seen the pictures of dying children in Africa and India--legs and arms like twigs, stomachs protruding like basketballs, and the will to live gone. The shock value is enough to bring guilt to the humblest of Christians. We wonder if our menial complaints like "the water's too cold, the food's too hot, and the clothes too old," are pleasing to God. Sometimes a short period of regret or sadness may come, but usually fades away like our memory of the picture. Is God calling us to something more with our material possessions and our attitude toward them?
  Simplicity, in the context of Spiritual Disciplines, speaks to our desire to have more, whether it's material "things," prestige, power, influence, etc. God is calling us to a life of frugality, not only with our finances, but in our heart. What we have and what we do is almost always an indication of where our heart is (Matthew 6:19-21). Simplicity calls us to place our heart, possessions, and influence on the things of God, not of man.
  The fact is we can live comfortably without most of what we have. Air-conditioners, CD players, new clothing, two vehicles, large homes, and extra "things," can all be evidences of our unwillingness to live a simple life. So, too, can a preoccupation with having our own way, manipulating and controlling others, or desiring power and influence for personal gain. This isn't to say that possessions are bad, that rich people are sinners, or that those in authority are covetous. Rather, frugality and simplicity call us to submit our heart to the Father so He can do His perfect work in us and in our possessions.
  How do we begin to walk in faith if simplicity isn't an active part of our Christianity? Give something dear away, resign a position of influence, secretly give money to those in need, or save the money you would have spent on a new "thing."

Lesson Questions:

1. Why is the practice of true simplicity and frugality dependent upon Jesus' command in Matthew 6:33? Also consider the following statement by Richard Foster: "The person who does not seek the Kingdom first, does not seek it at all."

2. Why is it important to examine our attitude and motivation toward material possessions? Matthew 6:10-21; Luke 16:13-15; 1 Timothy 6:9,10; James 4:1,2; 5:1-5.

3. Can we simply address our attitudes and motivations toward material things, or must we consider our outward expression as well? Matthew 5:38-42; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; Matthew 13:45,46.

4. Upon what is the source of our contentment to be based? Hebrews 13:5; Philippians 4:10-13; 1 Timothy 6:8.

5. What warning does scripture give about money and wealth? Proverbs 11:28; Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:15; Psalm 62:10; Luke 6:24.

6. Is having wealth negative? Proverbs 19:14; Ecclesiastes 5:18,19; 1 Timothy 6:17,18.

7. Discuss the implications of a covetous man being condemned with whoremongers, homosexuals, and adulterers. Ephesians 5:3-5; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 6:9,10.

8. Does simplicity and frugality address material possessions exclusively or does it include our desire for power, prestige, and honor from others? 1 Corinthians 3:1-4; Matthew 23:4-12; 1 Corinthians 10:31.

9. Is generous giving to be part of the Christian life? Romans 12:8; Matthew 5:42; 2 Corinthians 9:6,7.