Getting Rid of Excess

Good Morning, Friends

For years, I’ve been asking myself, “What are we doing with all this stuff?”
When my husband and I built our 4,600‑square‑foot lake house in Tennessee, we filled it with everything we thought we needed — a boat, a jet ski, and rooms overflowing with things. It was beautiful, peaceful, and surrounded by wildlife, but something inside me began to stir.

I realized that while we had filled our home, my heart longed for something simpler — something freer. I was tired of cleaning rooms we never used and living under the weight of excess. So, we downsized and moved to Flat Top Mountain, TN, where we could live with more freedom and a different kind of peace.

Now, we live in a cozy 720‑square‑foot home with our dogs and cats, and we’re building our final home on the same property — a simple, 2,800‑square‑foot house designed for intentional living. Letting go of earthly treasures has been one of the most freeing experiences of my life. The barn still holds boxes waiting to be sorted, donated, or discarded — but my spirit feels uncluttered.

God reminds us in Colossians 3:2,

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

And in Romans 12:2,

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

These verses call us to live differently — to release the grip of materialism and embrace the eternal.

Scripture of the Day

Colossians 3:2 — “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”
Romans 12:2 — “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
2 Corinthians 9:7 — “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Morning Reflection

The world tells us to accumulate — to measure success by what we own. But the Kingdom of God tells a different story. It invites us to release, to give, and to store treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

Generosity is the antidote to excess. When we give freely, we loosen the chains of materialism and open our hearts to joy.

Recently, I noticed an old, dilapidated school bus sitting in a field near our development. Grass had grown tall around it, and I realized someone lives there. My heart broke for the man who stepped down from its steps — weary, older, alone. My first thought was to cook a meal and take it to him.

I don’t know his story yet, but I feel God nudging me to reach out. Maybe he chose simplicity. Maybe life led him there. Either way, compassion calls us to act — not to judge, but to love.

We are told to carry one another’s burdens, to lift each other up, and to give generously. When we do, we reflect the heart of Christ.

So today, go through your home. Look at what you’ve gathered. Ask yourself what you truly need — and what might bless someone else. Donate instead of selling. Give freely. You’ll feel a stirring deep in your soul — the kind that only comes from obedience and love.

Questions for Reflection

• What possessions or habits might be weighing me down spiritually?
• How can I practice generosity in my daily life?
• Where is God inviting me to simplify — in my home, my schedule, or my heart?
• Who in my community might need encouragement, kindness, or help today?
• How can I renew my mind to focus more on eternal treasures than earthly ones?

Prayer

Father,
Thank You for reminding me that true peace is found not in possessions, but in Your presence. Teach me to set my mind on things above — to release what I don’t need and to give freely from what I have. Help me see opportunities to bless others and to live with open hands and a grateful heart. May my life reflect Your generosity and grace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Takeaway Moment

Simplicity is not about having less — it’s about making room for more of God.
When we let go of excess, we gain clarity, peace, and purpose.