Embracing Simplicity: Insights from “Freedom of Simplicity” by Richard J. Foster

In “Freedom of Simplicity,” Richard J. Foster presents a compelling vision of how embracing simplicity can lead to a more fulfilling and spiritually enriching life. Foster delves into the essence of simplicity, not just as a lifestyle choice but as a profound spiritual discipline that can transform our hearts and minds.

The Essence of Simplicity

Foster opens by asserting that God “never guides us into an intolerable scramble of panting feverishness” (Foster, p. 5). Instead, simplicity allows us to enter the deep silences of the heart for which we were created. This inward reality of simplicity naturally manifests in our outward actions and lifestyle choices, reflecting a harmonious balance between our spiritual and material lives (Foster, p. 9).

Spiritual Discipline and Corruption

Simplicity, as Foster describes, is a grace given by God (Foster, p. 7). However, he cautions that it is the most outward of all spiritual disciplines and thus highly susceptible to corruption. The greatest danger lies in isolating simplicity from other spiritual practices, which can lead to a superficial and ultimately hollow expression of faith (Foster, p. 13). This is a trap for all leaders that can sometimes pare down more than what is needed. This doesn't mean to shy from simplicity rather just making sure to keep it in balance. The ultimate goal is keeping life in balance from the simplicity of things.

Balancing the Material and the Spiritual

Foster offers a balanced perspective on the material world, recognizing its goodness but also its limitations. “The material world is good but it is limited good—limited in the sense that we cannot make a life out of it” (Foster, p. 11). This understanding helps us appreciate the material blessings in our lives without becoming overly attached to them. We too often become too attached to the "things" we live with and in that role we can find ourselves being driven by those "things". Our goal is to keep the material in it's rightful place and keep what is important as important in our hearts and lives.

Radical Obedience and Supreme Allegiance

A central theme in Foster’s work is the concept of radical obedience to God, which requires our supreme allegiance. “Radical obedience is possible only when God has our supreme allegiance” (Foster, p. 20). This obedience is not about performing religious duties but about living a life fully committed to God’s will, marked by simplicity and integrity (Foster, p. 30). It isn't to overcomplicate things through a follow of spiritual rules, but rather focused on the relationship. We do this in our human to human interactions as well and sometimes the norms overcomplicate the relationships we have when if we would just simplify it to loving and caring for others it would cause less anger over the complications.

Compassion, Justice, and Simplicity

Foster intertwines the principles of compassion and justice with the call to simplicity. He writes, “Compassion and justice blended call us to simplicity of life” (Foster, p. 33). This perspective encourages us to live in a way that reflects a deep concern for the well-being of others and a commitment to social justice. It focuses things on the need for all of us to have compassion and justice. We can find ourselves much more fulfilled if we focus on that balance within our relationships. I think we can all relate to the need to have compassion and justice in our lives which should drive us to give that to others as well.

Spiritual Liberation Through Prayer

Prayer plays a crucial role in achieving simplicity. Foster notes, “Prayer frees us to be controlled by God. To pray is to change. There is no greater liberating force in the Christian life than prayer” (Foster, p. 68-69). Through prayer, we are liberated from the distractions and anxieties of life, allowing us to focus on what truly matters. Prayer can be the calming of the storm in our lives. We can settle those unnecessary stress and anxiousness through prayer.

Living Faithfully in Today’s Culture

Foster emphasizes the importance of understanding what it means to live faithfully in today’s culture. “Because we live in a different culture we must once again ask what it means to live faithful lives in our day” (Foster, p. 78). This involves a continual process of seeking God’s guidance and being open to the ways He calls us to live out simplicity in our current context.

Conclusion

“Freedom of Simplicity” by Richard J. Foster is a profound guide to living a life grounded in spiritual and material simplicity. By integrating simplicity with other spiritual disciplines and focusing on radical obedience to God, Foster provides a pathway to a more peaceful, purposeful, and fulfilling life. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to align their life with deeper spiritual values and find true freedom in simplicity.

References

Foster, R. J. (1981). Freedom of Simplicity. HarperOne.