What is it that we need?

He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. (2 Corinthians 5:15 ESV)

Have you ever downsized? That could mean a smaller car, a smaller house, going from owning to renting. My family made the decision about 5 and a half years ago to do just that. It was a very humbling experience. While we chose to downsize our home, it was a forced choice. A career decision after 2 years had depleted our savings and we found that we could no longer afford the lifestyle we we living. We met with our pastor and knew what needed to be done.

To give some background, I have been a very hard worker my whole life, I love working, it brings me great pleasure to solve problems and bring solutions to the forefront. I had done well for myself and my family. A wife, four kids, a 4500 square foot, 4 bedroom colonial, finished club room in the basement, in-ground pool in the backyard, beautiful landscaping.  We seemingly had it all, but even without the job troubles, there was something missing. There was too much room, we couldn't feel close as a family. We became the things we had and not the people we are.

we moved to an 1800 square foot 3 bedroom rancher. It is beautiful. I grew up (6 kids) in a much smaller 3 bedroom rancher. We had a lot of fun growing up in that house. I knew our move would work, but it didn't make it any easier.

But something has happened. Something very positive. Oh, of course the kids will complain about not having their own bedrooms, we sometimes bump into each other because of the tight quarters. But we have a home, not just a house now. And our focus has shifted from the things of the world that man makes to the things that God made. We still slip up, get caught up in the moment as my career is back on track. Thankfully, we are in the Word, and that level sets our desires and lets us think more in terms of our needs.

God Bless.