Dear God, we’re about to step on some toes. May your children come wearing Tims.
I oversee several vibrant churches full of people at each end of the generational spectrum and one of the things I love most is working with the youth and teens. Every week I learn something new and this week it was all about “the soft life.” “Whew Bishop, I can’t be doing all of that work, I’m trying to lead a soft life.”
Apparently, the soft life represents a lifestyle that prioritizes rest, ease, and enjoyment while limiting stress. It sounds absolutely lovely in theory and I commend the youth on priortizing their life. I applaud them on seeking everything God has in store for them and I thank God with them when the soft life blesses them with ease. Yet, none of that answers the question of whether the soft life is biblical. Is it compatible with the principles of scripture? The answer: it depends
The soft life, as described by its proponents, seeks to reject the struggle, stress, and anxiety that often accompany the rat race of modern life. It encourages individuals to prioritize their joy, well-being, and personal experiences. While some portray the soft life as a display of luxury and material abundance, as Christians it is important to remember that true soft living is subjective and can be experienced by anyone. Open up Instagram and you’ll believe that the soft life is Louis Vuitton bags, luxury cruises and the newest kicks. Open the Bible and you’ll realize that at its core, the soft life is a mindset that cultivates balance, self-awareness, intentionality, and joy.
God’s Desire for His Children: Blessings, Abundance, and Balance
The Bible assures us that we are called to be blessed, to be the head and not the tail, and to lend and not borrow (Deuteronomy 28:12). However, it is crucial to understand that God’s blessings are not solely focused on material possessions and worldly success.
While God wants us to experience His blessings and enjoy the good things in life, scripture also offers cautionary wisdom regarding self-indulgence and excessive pursuit of worldly pleasures. Proverbs 23:20-21 (NIV) reminds us, “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” This verse urges moderation and warns against the consequences of overindulgence.
Additionally, Jesus Himself taught the importance of balance and prioritizing eternal treasures over temporary comforts. In Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV), Jesus said, “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.” This reminds us to focus on storing up treasures in heaven and not to become overly attached to worldly possessions.
The Soft Life: Finding Balance and Prioritizing Joy
True abundance, true soft living, true better living encompasses spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being. These may seem like easy things to possess, but this is actually where the real work begins. Covering yourself, your family and your flock in a war for their hearts and minds is work! Interestingly enough, I haven’t quite figured out how to be a soldier and fight for these same young people without actually fighting. I’ve actually found that Satan loves it when I seek ease and comfort above all else. He rejoices when I put down my rifle, kick off my Tims, and put my feet up without thought of anything else or anyone else. So I don’t or rather I try not to (I’m human too). Instead I center God in everything I do and make sure that my family and flock are covered going in and out. They’re covered before they put fork to mouth or head to bed and in turn, they cover me.
So, go ahead and embrace the soft life! Just make sure to align your choices and priorities with biblical principles. This means finding joy and contentment in the simple blessings of life, nurturing healthy relationships, practicing gratitude, and prioritizing our spiritual growth. This also means finding a balanced approach that reflects our faith.