Its not politically correct these days to promote biblical and godly living. Its not PC to tell women to be careful of their homes and keep them as clean and organized as possible either. I’ve never really been in to being PC.
What I’ve noticed is that women today are under the impression that they simply don’t need to be concerned about a clean home, organized possessions, tidy children, modest clothing, a gentle spirit or planned meals… because happy children, a pleasant life, a relaxed mom, nice vacations or something else is more important. Who doesn’t want happy children, pleasant life, etc.? We all do! But there is a balance lacking in today’s teachings toward women. Its very much like what I always taught my children: You can’t have the fun times until the work is done.
If any of you don’t want to do the work, that’s OK by me. I don’t make your choices. But there has to be a reckoning day when you’ve had all the fun and you find that there is simply chaos, bickering, sadness and strife in your family life.
I will always stand up and tell you that the right thing to do is to care about the blessings of a home and family and to do your best with them. Its not a stay-at-home-mom thing. Its a human thing.
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for[ you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
Women are generally tempted today to gratify and indulge all their personal desires and wants, even by a lot of Christian organizations and Christian mentors, instead of being encouraged to serve and be servants in life and in their homes. We’re told how much we deserve some time off (who doesn’t want a little time to themselves?) so we take it, lots of it. We’re told to let that cleaning go a few times too often and then we’re surprised when we’re still so stressed even after all the time off and relaxing.
The idea of being a servant has somehow become a horrible thing. But servanthood is precisely what Christ has called Christians to. I’m just here to tell you that this life is not all about YOU. Life is about Jesus Christ and what He’s called us to do here. And one of the things He has definitely NOT called us to is a lack of self discipline and a attitude of entitlement.
The things you and I do to make our homes a pleasant place to live, does not make us heroes or martyrs. Don’t misunderstand me here, I believe many women do amazing work in their homes and in their places of employment, but a lot of attitudes could bear with some adjusting. Neglecting one’s home and family out of a place of self-centeredness is not admirable. Demanding attention or accolades for simply doing our duty as an adult is not admirable.
I’m going to always encourage women to build up their homes. I’ll always teach women to do their VERY BEST in keeping their homes a loving and inviting place. It may take scheduling for you to get it, it may take learning new routines and habits but I will always teach it. It may not be easy but nothing of value is ever easy.
I will never tell you that it is OK if your home is always sloppy or meals aren’t ever thought out. You and I both know that there are times in life when its impossible to do what I am asking you to do, but we know that those are the exceptions. The SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) has to be; living up to what God has called you for and equipped you to do. When you’re tired, you pray for strength. When you’re confused, you pray for clarity. When you’re overwhelmed, you pray for grace and peace. He will provide what you lack.
I will always teach women to put Jesus Christ first in their lives and in their homes. Putting Him first means that everything else falls into place correctly. Doing our best with what He has given us and where He has put us is how we should be living, not just schlepping through life with nothing of value to show for it.
I’ve taken a long break from social media and I was just thinking about how much I missed the old T2CHK board, filled with encouraging women. Y’all were my cherished mentors during the baby years! Here I am with teenagers now and thought that I needed to come back here and visit and what do you have for me but perfectly timed advice yet again and the *exact* words I needed to hear. Thank you for not watering down the message, God used it in my heart tonight.
Kristen, I remember when you first arrived at CHK, Its been a while! I’m glad you are finding what you need here. 🙂
Excellent! Thank you
Well said!