How to Find Joy in Simplicity

A Christian woman with many tasks pinned to her shirt

By Daeyna Otieno

Not long ago, my life was a whirlwind of activities. 

I was juggling a new job, family, and church commitments. There were never enough hours in a day. 

One evening, I was rushing to prepare dinner when my husband tapped me on the shoulder, smiled, and hugged me. 

I paused, really looked at him, and felt a wave of joy wash over me. 

I couldn’t remember the last time I’d simply hugged my husband. 

That moment stuck with me. 

Whenever I feel overwhelmed by life, that memory brings me peace—it was a profound experience.

We won’t find joy in the hustle and bustle, but in the simple, often overlooked moments of our lives.

A Christian woman with her eyes closed and face upward in prayer about how to find joy

7 Steps to Find Joy in Simplicity

As Christians, finding joy in simplicity can be life-changing. 

Here are seven ways we can find true joy in the simple things.

1. Practice gratitude daily.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV

We can start each day by listing a few things we’re grateful for in our lives. 

It doesn’t have to be grand—the warm sun, a good cup of tea, or a kind word from a friend. 

This simple practice shifts our focus from what’s lacking to what we already have.

2. Slow down and savor the moment.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 NIV

It’s easy to rush through life in our fast-paced world. 

Take time to slow down and savor the little moments. 

Slowing down helps us see the beauty in everyday life—birds chirping on a morning walk, meeting a friend for coffee, snuggling under a fuzzy blanket on a winter evening.

3. Simplify your schedule.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV

Cutting down on unnecessary commitments can open up space for joy. 

Prioritize what’s truly important and let go of the rest.

If we realize our schedule is too packed, pray for wisdom and decide which activities to release. We may discover some were more about obligation than joy. 

This frees up time to spend with family and deepens our relationship with God.

A church potluck

4. Find joy in serving others.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10 NIV

Serving others brings a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. 

Every week, I pick up an extra dessert my husband likes and surprise him with it. The joy on his face fills my heart with joy. 

Look for small ways to serve those around us.

Serving others doesn’t have to be grand. Small acts of kindness make a big difference.

5. Connect with nature.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1 NIV

Spending time in nature is a wonderful way to find joy. God’s creation lifts our spirits and reminds us of His greatness.

Taking a walk around our neighborhoods can help clear our minds. 

The beauty of the trees, the sound of the wind, and the sight of children playing can bring us back to a place of joy and gratitude.

A Christian woman spending time in nature to find joy

6. Cultivate a heart of contentment.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6 NIV

Contentment doesn’t come from having more, but from appreciating what we have. 

Cultivate a heart of contentment by focusing on our blessings.

We can pray for contentment in our circumstances if we’re walking through a season of sadness and disappointment.

Sometimes, we’re chasing after things we don’t need. 

Focusing on what we have can lead to a more profound sense of joy and peace.

7. Spend quality time with loved ones.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24 NIV

Quality time with loved ones brings immense joy. Make an effort to connect meaningfully with family and friends.

Every Sunday, my family gathers for dinner. 

We talk, laugh, and share our lives. These moments are precious and remind us that joy is found in relationships, not things.

A Christian family spending time together to find joy

Embrace Simplicity and Find Joy

Finding joy in simplicity isn’t about doing more but about being present and appreciating the blessings around us. 

Embrace the small moments. Be grateful for the little things. 

God is with us every step of the way.

We can find joy in everyday life today. We can start a gratitude journal, spend time in nature, or connect with a loved one. 

We can simplify our schedule and focus on what matters. 

True joy is often found in the ordinary. 

We have the power to choose joy. 

We can step into each day with purpose and a heart open to the beauty of simplicity. 

Let’s walk a path of simplicity, lean into God’s presence, and let His joy fill our hearts. 

Daeyna Otieno

As a pastor’s wife and blogger with over eight years of experience, Daeyna Otieno runs two blogs: She Is A Message, supporting new pastors’ wives in their ministry, and Purposeful Her, helping young Christian women live purposefully through faith, productivity, and organization. Follow her on Pinterest at sheisamessageministries and purposefulher.

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