Our journey through 35 states over the course of eight weeks in an RV continues with this week’s episode that we are calling “Of Pioneers and Homesteaders”. Throughout the trip, we have been reading the Little House on the Prairie book series and we are currently in the middle of book seven of nine. It has been an added bonus on the trip to see a replica of the Ingalls’ family cabin near Independence, Kansas, as well as staying on the original homestead property they owned in De Smet, South Dakota.
Reading these books, we are amazed at how little the Ingalls family had to make do with and yet how much abundance they felt like they had. They were pioneers and knew how to live off the land. At times they had harsh weather and endured financial hardships. Through it all, they had contentment, which is a strategic mindset, multiplying the effectiveness of their circumstances.
The Ingalls family also lived a very simple lifestyle, especially compared to American standards in today’s culture. They held possessions loosely and valued relationships over material gain. Being content with what God supplied allowed them to overcome challenges and leave an enduring legacy that still inspires readers today.
Scripture from this Episode
“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” I Timothy 6:6-8, NASB
“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13, NASB
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.” I Corinthians 9:24
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
