I had a lot of time to spend in God's word while I was healing. He was showing me many things through that time but mostly about my priorities. When I wasn't reading I was listening to the bible or teaching Cd's and tapes that have been laying around my house for years. I didn't take for granted the time I did get to spend with my family because I had nothing to distract me as far as chores or homeschooling. Some days it was so quiet around here it was ear piercing and I would just ask the Lord, "What should I do now?". I got a vision of what it would be like if I set my mind on things above throughout my daily life. I was so overwhelmed with 4 children doing school this year and 3 toddlers under foot that I neglected what's most important. Reading God's word daily with my children and focusing on their character and heart. I told myself this was my husband's responsibility. Don't get me wrong, the laundry does need to get done, the house does need to be livable and somewhat sanitary, and if our children can't pass a state test we might have to answer to the authorities. But will these things matter when we get to heaven. Will I regret spending so much time trying to get things "Done"?
The most practical advice I've ever heard is this. "When your day isn't going as well as you planned and everything seems out of order and control, stop and do something different. Take your children to the park or for a walk. Put them in the bath to play. Something outside of the schedule to round everyone up and be able to keep smiling into their little hearts." My children won't remember if my house was clean on August 9, 2010, but if I focus on the things that are eternal today, it will matter "Forever".
The wisest advice I've had comes from a woman I admire. She raised 9 children, 8 boys and 1 girl. She said if she accomplished nothing else in a day she was in God's word every morning with her children. ALL of her children are serving the Lord. Her family shines brightly for Him in their own families. She not only affected her children but their spouses and children and children's children and so on. I'm up and moving around finally but not exactly back to normal. My body tells me when I've done enough and it's a good reminder of the things I learned while I was in bed. I'm still having to focus on what's important because I don't have much to give. My laundry is behind and my floors are disgusting but someday that won't matter. If I choose to fill my children's hearts with eternal things I won't regret it. If I choose to focus on what's not done around here, I could get back in the habit of daily trying to get everything done except what's really important.
This picture has nothing to do with it but I thought it was cute!
2 comments:
So True! Finding that balance between tending the flock and grooming the pasture. If I step back and say a prayer, it is usually obvious where my attentions are needed most. Thanks for always encouraging!
oh mama! this pic has everything to do with it, some time not long ago, these smiling faces were Nathan and Melana, and a time not too far from now, this floor will be spotless, these cars will be in the giveaway bag and your house will beg for the sounds of your grandchildren's feet! Savor these moments while they're here. You'll never regret making memories with your family. Thanks for the reminder!
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