Chapter 8 – Simplifying – Part 4

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

Exercise 4: “Create in Me a Pure Heart, O God…”

Read Psalm 51. Write an entry that begins with the phrase, “Nobody knows about the time I…” and then tell about something dishonest you once did, especially if it resulted in complications in your life. Remember, you don’t have to share this with anyone.

Nobody knows about the time I used to shoplift. I used to take makeup. Lipstick. I wanted to have lipstick, but I never had any luck picking colors. I wanted rich and vibrant colors, but then they never looked right on me. So when I spent what back then seemed a lot of money and then got home and hated it… well, it was a waste of money. Why can’t you buy lipstick like Crayola crayons? In small packs of 96? So I’d get the urge to try again, but I didn’t really have the money to waste on something I might use once. I don’t remember the first time I did it or the last time. It might have only been a couple of times. Or it might have been several. But I’d pick one and slip it in my pocket.

Then came the time I tried something slightly different. I needed picture frames. I don’t remember what for. But I was looking at the wide variety available in a department store. The one I really wanted was way too expensive, I’m thinking over $15. Well, I found a box for a different frame that was less expensive, under $10. And I switched the frames in the boxes. I had been at the store a long time and I had been trying on shoes and I had quite a few things to carry. As I was heading to the check out, I noticed a guy watching me, walking parallel to me and talking into his hand. I panicked. Went back, put everyone down and left the store and NEVER went back. I haven’t taken anything purposely ever again.

Does it matter that this all happened back when I was in college without a job and had no money? Would you be shocked if I told you this happened recently? Do we have higher or different expectations for different people? I know I do. I expect more out of certain people. I shouldn’t. I should be held to the same standards. I shouldn’t criticize others for gossiping and backstabbing when I do the same…

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again…”

John 4:13 (ESV)