I am nearing graduation from Arkansas Tech University with a degree in Information Technology. I have been blessed to already have a job as a Systems Analyst/Programmer.

I am in the process of gathering the things I need for an apartment. However, I am wondering what is the proper balance between buying things and being attached to the things of the world. For instance, I have a used love seat (that I got for free from a neighbor); however, we are looking for a new one that is a solid color. Should I feel bad about owning things like this? Should I try and survive with as few possessions as possible?

Sometimes I just feel suffocated by the affluence and ease of American life... I almost feel guilty about it.

Sometimes I think to myself "could I part with all these things if necessary?"... "am I ready for persecution if it comes?"...

I'm confused. Help?

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Taylor Otwell
Member -- Oak Cliff Baptist Church
Fort Smith, Arkansas, USA

Did we ever hear any cry out on their deathbed that they have been too holy, that they have prayed too much, or walked with God too much? – Thomas Watson, The Godly Man’s Picture