I wanted to expand and perhaps clarify on my previous article about contentment at home.
First of all, I do have a number of small income-producing ventures. I am not against side businesses. It is my opinion that many women are talented or skilled in many money-making ways. Also, many women are ambitious, organized, or driven, and can therefore expend some energy and time on a business venture without sacrificing her home and family life. My point is; the home must come first. I have stepped back from several projects, simply because they were taking first place in my mind, energies, and time. I have a hard rule for myself that my family will always come first.
Second, I do believe that wives and mothers are to be primarily homemakers, not career women. If there is an emergency or necessity, of course God will grant grace. This is why I specify 'side' business. But - living a more luxurious lifestyle is not a necessity. We have grown so accustomed to luxury and ease (in America especially), that it seems ridiculous to live in a small home, or not have the latest tech toy. I do not believe women should be giving the lion's share of their waking hours to a job, when there are children at home. Titus 2:4-5 We should be investing into their hearts, teaching them about Jesus.
Of course this is not popular teaching. I find in my own self, the same selfish desire to do something for me. But the Christian life is at its core unselfish. Dying to self and living for others - this is the way of the cross. Following Jesus in every way - whether it is popular or not. Matthew 16:24 Remember, Jesus too, was unpopular when He walked here as our example. He was so unpopular that people tried to kill Him!
So my thoughts summed up, are these:
Seek the will of God in every area of your life. Ask Him to show you His will about your ambitions and dreams and goals. Ask Him (and your husband, if you have one) what your priority should be.
Read the Word of God.
Spend time in prayer.
Be willing to be made willing, as Corrie Ten Boom once prayed.
If you are already a full-time stay at home mom? Learn to find contentment in washing clothes, picking up toys, washing dishes, cooking tasty meals. Every job you do is so very important. It is a calling. It is a foundational career. God sees every effort, hears every prayer, and knows every pain. He will give you wisdom and grace to find contentment at home, if you truly seek Him in the midst of your daily duties.
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