Recently I offered an opportunity for my Facebook group, Lisa’s Lovely Essentials, to have a de-clutter challenge. The rules were simple: daily consistency to get rid of a small number of items (whether selling, donating or throwing away). It surprised me how motivating it was to have the accountability! The goal was not a massive overhaul, but a daily habit.

The word on my heart with all of this de-cluttering has been stewardship. Am I stewarding well the things I have? Sometimes, I am not stewarding my time well because I am managing too many things, items that create extra work for me but could bless someone else. Jesus taught, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” (Luke 12:15 NKJV).

The reality? Housework doesn’t feel very spiritual much of the time. But during my years as a homemaker, I have found many spiritual gems hidden in mundane tasks. Here are a few of my takeaways while clearing clutter:

• Daily Habits over One-time Overhauls – When first tackling a cluttered space, energy is high and doing everything at once feels attainable. Most of the time, however, energy flags when things are at the worse-before-getting-better point. While “one-and-done” projects can work for some people at certain times, the daily diligence to clear clutter pays off over time. This can also be seen spiritually. There are times of exponential growth, deliverance, or revelation in the Christian’s life – amazing experiences that are more instant than process. However, most of the Christian’s life is daily – disciplines, habits and learning. While we appreciate supernatural intervention, we must be obedient and faithful in the daily processes.
• Perspective Shift on Provision – Going through our possessions helps us to see more objectively what our priorities are. The challenge of letting go can be tied to a question of provision: “What if I need this later?” While wisdom is necessary, this process helps us to identify our trusted source of provision. Jesus’ instruction is still true today: “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ for after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:31-33 NKJV).
• Stewardship Focus – As Christians, we must live with a stewardship mindset. Our entire being – who we are, what we possess, the opportunities we’ve been given and our gifts and talents – belong to God. In the same passage quoted above, Jesus also instructed, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV).

Did you catch it? Your heart will always follow your treasure! When you and I really get our stewardship focus in place, it becomes easier to see what we need to keep and what we need to release; it all belongs to God!

Where are you in your de-cluttering challenge – in your home AND in your heart? If you’re like me, there’s still work to do. Know that you’re not alone and it is a daily process. Where will you start today?  I’d love to hear your de-cluttering tips in the comments, and if you need extra encouragement let me know.  I’m cheering you on!