In the context of biblical teachings, "clutter" can be understood as the accumulation of unnecessary items or distractions that can impede one's spiritual growth and relationship with God. While the Bible does not explicitly mention the word "clutter," the principles surrounding simplicity, stewardship, and focus on the eternal rather than the temporal can be applied to the concept.

Simplicity and Contentment

The Bible encourages believers to live a life of simplicity and contentment, avoiding the pitfalls of materialism and excessive accumulation. In 1 Timothy 6:6-8 , Paul writes, "Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these." This passage highlights the importance of being satisfied with basic necessities and not being burdened by excess possessions.

Stewardship

Believers are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them. This includes managing physical possessions wisely and ensuring that they do not become a hindrance to one's spiritual life. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus emphasizes the importance of using what we have been given for God's glory and purposes. Clutter, in this sense, can be seen as a failure to steward resources effectively, as it may lead to wastefulness and distraction from God's work.

Focus on the Eternal

The Bible consistently urges believers to focus on eternal values rather than temporary, earthly possessions. In Matthew 6:19-21 , Jesus instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This teaching encourages Christians to prioritize spiritual wealth over material accumulation, which can often manifest as clutter.

Distraction from Spiritual Priorities

Clutter can also be understood as anything that distracts from one's spiritual priorities and relationship with God. Hebrews 12:1 advises, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us." This verse suggests that believers should remove any hindrances, including physical and mental clutter, that prevent them from pursuing their spiritual journey with focus and determination.

Practical Application

In practical terms, addressing clutter involves evaluating one's possessions and lifestyle to ensure they align with biblical principles of simplicity, stewardship, and eternal focus. This may include decluttering physical spaces, reassessing time commitments, and prioritizing activities that foster spiritual growth and service to others. By doing so, believers can create an environment conducive to a deeper relationship with God and a more effective witness to the world.2 Timothy 2:15
Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
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Romans 13:13-14
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
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Jude 1:7
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
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Chap. Ii Though the Soul Perceive it Self Deprived of Discourse ...
... must needs feel it, but how well is time employed, when the Soul is dead, dumb,
and resigned in the presence of God, there without any clutter or distraction ...
/.../the spiritual guide which disentangles the soul/chap ii though the soul.htm

Fourth Conversation
... "The time of business," said he, "does not with me differ from the time of prayer;
and in the noise and clutter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the ...
/.../lawrence/the practice of the presence of god/fourth conversation.htm

A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized.
... to destroy. What brackish is will make a candle sputter; 'Twixt sin and
grace there's oft' a heavy clutter. Sometimes the light ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a book for boys and.htm

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