Simple Doesn't Mean Simplistic

There’s an old acronym that some folks in my congregation like to use, K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid). There’s a certain sharp edge to this, for sure, but there’s an unmistakable truth to it, also. When applied to the Christian walk, K.I.S.S. serves as a friendly reminder to set your mind on Christ and ensure that all you do is unto the Lord, to His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).


A simple life is unfettered by vain philosophies and ideas that distract us from the Truth that sets us free (John 8:32). Christ is our ‘true north’, and all our investments of time and energy are to be directed towards being sanctified in Him (e.g., growing closer to Him daily). As we are increasingly set apart for His purposes, our load becomes lighter because we simultaneously shed all the weightiness of trying to keep up with the world and its everchanging standards (Matthew 11:30). Our goals become firm and unchanging (Hebrews 13:8) because we cling to the “Rock” (1 Corinthians 10:4).

Know this: simple doesn’t mean simplistic. A Christian who doesn’t understand this will undoubtedly fail to achieve higher order peace in their lives. While they think they’re transcending the world, they are, in fact, being duped by their own life philosophy into a life of malcontent and self-induced, ungodly asceticism.


I think some Christians interpret what the Bible has to say about simplicity as meaning simplistic. But that isn’t true at all. For example, they might refer to Paul’s words to the Corinthians:


This type of undistracted devotion doesn’t imply a simplistic life – simple, yes, but not simplistic. A great example is Paul, himself. Would you say that he was single-minded in his quest to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Would you also say that he was determined to see his ministry through until the end (ref: 2 Timothy 4:7)? Absolutely! However, do you think his life was simplistic and uncomplicated or do you think his days were filled with new challenges, responsibilities, and even dangers? Of course they were. While his goals were simple, his daily life was complicated (the opposite of simplistic). Do you see the difference?



Paul shouldered a lot of responsibility, which meant he had a lot of complexity in his daily life. And that was before people were trying to kill him. Add the latter point to the mix and might you agree that Paul’s life was anything but simplistic???


Don’t misinterpret what the Bible has to say about simplicity (e.g., 2 Corinthians 11:3). It’s God’s intended blessing that you be simple, but it’s not His will that you are simplistic. There’s a big difference between simplicity and simplistic. It’s great to be able to tune out all of the white noise this crazy world throws at you, but don’t mistake focus as an excuse to avoid complexities in your life. K.I.S.S. should never mean you sit holed up in your home claiming some higher ground (Does that resemble Jesus or any of His disciples?). That’s not transcendence, that’s a big miss and a surefire way to become depressed.

If anything, “simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ” gives you the energy to take on even larger challenges than the ones you already have. It translates into a life of contentment, walking by means of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), with tremendous power, on that narrow road that leads to life (Matthew 7:14). A simplistic life robs you of all of this. What a shame that is.

My friend, be encouraged. When God saved you, He opened your eyes to a much broader, more beautiful horizon that begs to be explored. A simple life is an exciting, surefooted one. You are no longer a prisoner, so don’t lock yourself into an underwhelming life filled with boring, simplistic details. Step out on faith. Talk to people. Help others. Be on a mission. You are a child of God, for crying out loud! Act like your Dad owns the place (psst – He does).


Love in Christ,

Ed Collins