While I have many interests, I couldn't help but feel like my own efforts in each of them fell short. Before I knew it, I had fallen into the comparison trap and envy started to build up within me. What great thing could I do? Was I just a Jack-of-all-trades, master of none? Mediocre? Average?
The Enemy whispered, "Why even bother?"
I prayed, "Lord, what can I excel at?" as if I had some hidden gift or talent that I just hadn't discovered yet. Was there simply something within me that just needed to be unlocked?
My eyes swelled with tears at his humbling response:
"No one can love your husband and children like you."
And suddenly that was enough. If I could excel at one thing, that would be it.
The devil hates that. He hates godly homes and families serving God together, wives and mothers creating a Christian atmosphere in which the souls of their loved ones are nurtured in the ways of the Lord. He will try all sorts of things, present all sorts of distractions, and tell us all sorts of lies to try to keep us from looking well to the ways of our households because he knows our influence is so important. I think we sometimes forget.
Ladies, will you endeavor with me to excel at loving our husbands and children like no one else? What a powerful difference it would make in our lives and in the world, all for the glory of God.
"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all."
~ Proverbs 31:28-29
Kelsey, it's the job with the most lasting effects. Careers come and go, 'talents' have an effect as long as they're being used, but the effects of being a godly mother and wife last for many generations. You have chosen well!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful comment, Patsi, and so true. I am going to copy it down so I can look at it as a reminder. It is such a blessing to be able to have a lasting influence by caring for those I love.
DeleteJust imagine what a world we could have if every Mother chose to love her husband and children. You have found what is best and you will reap the rewards for your lifetime. It changes as you grow older and children grow up so there is always something new to learn but God will be there right by your side to guide you every step of the way.
ReplyDeleteI think the world would be very different, Lana. Thank you for your wise words of encouragement.
DeleteBeautiful thoughts, Kelsey! Once when one of my kids was seriously ill, I realized that the most important thing is love. If I could go back to when my kids were young, I'd try to be more loving. I am looking over your posts, I have the Tightwad Gazette (also)! andrea
ReplyDeleteThank you, Andrea! With small children, I am guilty of sometimes trying to just make it through the day and check things off my list, but you are right- showing love and making them feel loved is so important.
DeleteDear Kelsey, Thankyou for sharing this. I have tortured myself with this exact same thought all week, thinking I am literally not very good at anything in particular and have no set Talent. Your post brought me comfort. Clare (Australia)
ReplyDeleteClare, I wish I could give you a big hug! I think there are two common traps in this area (for me anyway): comparing ourselves to others and comparing ourselves to our own expectations and ideals. I have determined to just do my best with what God has given me and offer it to him. Even a small talent can increase, just like in the parable. If I know one thing, it's that you are irreplaceable in your home and to your family. Loving them and caring for them are pleasing to God because it is something he specifically commands us to do, so please don't underestimate its significance! Thank you so much for your comment, and I'm glad the post was a comfort. Love to you...
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