Devotions from Lisa McMinn’s book, The Contented Soul

Today’s devotion is on limits, and as a culture we are not particularly good at accepting limits, especially if our comfort is involved. People today tend to feel pressured to make the most of every opportunity and end up living frantic lives.  But contented people accept more limits and have a sense of belonging and being part of something bigger than themselves. They seek rest, renewal, and reflection so they can continue to find joy in being with, serving, and working alongside others. They relinquish the need to constantly push to have or do more, or to keep up and instead welcome opportunities to slow down, to rest.   We are all frail and finite and dependent on our God who sustains us. Let us also accept the limits imposed by our aging bodies. When we do we are released from the expectation to control something we ultimately can’t control. Instead why not celebrate each birthday and live content with ourselves, God, and others .

Let us also limit our consumption.  When we do we learn to enjoy what is simple, and in consuming less we remind ourselves of what brings contentment.”  Elaine St. James said, “The secret to happiness is not in getting more but in wanting less.”