Keep it Simple for Less Stress
Keep It Simple for Less Stress
By Lauren E. Miller
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
In a world that celebrates speed, noise, and multitasking, simplicity has become a rare treasure — yet it is the very pathway to peace and renewed strength. The art of keeping life simple is not about doing less for the sake of less; it’s about doing what matters most, with presence and purpose.
When we overcomplicate life with endless “to-dos,” digital distractions, and commitments that no longer serve our values, we unknowingly invite stress to take up residence in our hearts and minds. As Lauren E. Miller shares in5 Minutes to Stress Relief, “Stress shows up when what we value most isn’t reflected in where we invest our time, energy, and attention.”
The Power of Pruning for Growth
Just as a gardener prunes branches to make room for new growth, we too must periodically examine what’s draining our energy. What habits, relationships, or thought patterns are “sucking the life out of you”?
Jesus often modeled this in His own life — stepping away from the crowds to pray, rest, and reconnect with His Father. Pruning isn’t about loss; it’s about gain — clearing the clutter so that what truly matters can flourish.
When we simplify, we create the sacred space needed for spiritual, emotional, and physical renewal.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit…” — John 15:1-2
Stepping Away from Digital Distraction
Have you ever noticed how you feel after spending time in nature? The air feels cleaner, your thoughts settle, and your soul exhales. The simplicity of God’s creation reminds your mind of what your soul has always known:
God is found in the present moment.
Yet, the electronic world has pulled many of us away from that sacred simplicity. We scroll for connection but end up disconnected from the wonder of life unfolding all around us — the laughter of a loved one, the rustling of leaves, the miracle of our own breath.
Each moment we choose to unplug, we step closer to peace. The still small voice of God is rarely heard in the noise of the feed.
Keeping It Simple Requires Noticing
Simplicity begins with awareness — high noticing of what creates chaos and what brings calm. When we learn to pause and observe, we gain the emotional intelligence to make better choices. We stop reacting and start responding.
It’s amazing how many moments of refreshment we walk right by because we’re hijacked by the complexities we create. The invitation today is tostep off the stage of the dramaand return to the quiet stage of grace — where God waits to meet you in simplicity.
Coaching Questions for Reflection
- What areas of your life feel most cluttered or draining right now?
- What activities or relationships consistently bring you peace, joy, and energy?
- How aligned is your daily schedule with your top three life values?
- What distractions (digital or emotional) could you “prune” this week to create more space for what matters?
- When was the last time you felt fully present with God — no devices, no agenda, just stillness?
- How do you feel after you have spent time on your phone looking at social media posts? How do you feel after you read a book, take a walk in nature, or talk to a close friend?
- Unplug and simplify your life.
- Reflect:How does my choice of spending time on this task draw me closer to God? How does it refresh my soul?
Action Steps for Simplicity and Stress Relief
- Digital Detox:Set aside one day (or even one hour a day) to be completely screen-free. Notice how your body and mind respond.
- Value Check:Write down your top three core values. Compare them to how you currently spend your time — where might you realign?
- Nature Pause:Schedule regular walks or quiet time outdoors. Let creation reset your inner rhythm.
- Prune with Purpose:Identify one area of life — a habit, commitment, or mindset — that drains you. Release it with gratitude to make room for growth.
- Daily Stillness Practice:Take 5 minutes each morning to breathe, pray, and invite God into your day before the world begins to pull at you.
Simplicity is sacred.It is not found in the absence of activity but in the alignment of your heart with God’s rhythm of grace. The more we prune what distracts us, the more we discover that life — and peace — are already here, waiting in the quiet.
Check Out the Edge God In Podcast:Edge God In: Keep It Simple: Learn to keep your faith and daily walk simple by using the SNAP practice to notice God’s presence, seek His wisdom, and respond with a willing heart — “Here I am, Lord, send me.”
