“And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15 ESV)

We had accumulated so much stuff!

Susan and I have moved several times over the past fifty-plus years. The first two moves were into larger homes to accommodate our growing family. But as our children grew up and moved away, we found ourselves needing to downsize into smaller spaces.

What has amazed us most is the sheer amount of possessions we’ve managed to accumulate over the years. Our garage and storage sheds became full. Going through it all has been a chore—deciding what to keep and what to toss. A big part of the challenge is that so many of our things are tied to memories, and letting them go can feel like giving away a part of our past. It’s an emotional process.

However, looking at this with common sense—and having dealt with the estates of our own parents—we realize that if we don’t take care of our stuff now, our kids will have to later. So, we’re doing our best to view our possessions through a practical lens and address them accordingly.

Our conclusion

It’s okay to have possessions—but don’t let them have you. In other words, priorities must be in the right order. God must come first in your life. Look to Him alone as your provider, and when you put Him first, He will supply all that you need—including your possessions. (See Matthew 6:33)

Don’t put your hope in the uncertainty of riches

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” (1 Tim. 6:17-19 ESV)

Treasures in heaven

“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.” (Matt. 6:19-21 ESV)

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matt. 16:26 ESV)

Therefore

“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.” (Prov. 3:9-10 ESV)