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I’m learning about the Ignatian concept of “Indifference.”

Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits, defined indifference as being detached enough from things, people, or experiences to be able either to take them up or to leave them aside, depending on whether they help us to “to praise, reverence, and serve God” (Spiritual Exercises 23). 

I’ve found the concept immensely helpful and applicable to a number of situations which I’ll write about over the next few days. I have found that nearly every time I share indifference with someone as a suggestion to deal with a particular issue, they ask, “Is there a verse for that?” Answer: yes, of course. Check out Philippians 4.11 – 13:  

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

This is Paul practicing indifference.

I will explore in the next several blogs how we can use indifference to help with a variety of issues including perceived lack of respect, anger, and frustration with others’ beliefs and practices. These blogs explore indifference as applied to priorities and relationships and contentment.