The dishes clatter, kids call 'mom, what do you want me to do next', the laundry buzzes 'done', the to-do list is a mile long and it isn't even 9a.m.
The life of a mom.
A homeschooling mom, none-the-less. Lessons to teach (or quick prepare because you forgot Johnny's spelling list when you set up his plans for the week... I did set up those plans for the week and didn't just dream it.... right?
How do we slow down enough.... oh, was that chocolate left out I can snack on or just a left-over pancake with syrup, hmmm, either way, the sugar will be good... what was I saying? Oh, yeah, how do we slow down enough to hear God?
Well, for starters, set down the pancake... or chocolate... and step away nice and slow! Food CAN help sooth crazy moments... a little "Hallelujah" chorus in the midst of the bustle. But sometimes our obsessions with those crutches can get in the way of Listening and Hearing. Whatever acts like an anointment to your hurried life (other than prayer and God) is in danger of becoming your idol and replacing those listening moments. Be careful how you find peace!
Then, re-evaluate your 'priorities', and look for simple solutions. How much of what you or your children do in a day can be stream-lined or just done-away with? How much more can they help with chores? How much more can you task them with studies (and chores) and trust they will do it without your help... even if it isn't how you would do it. How much, in our effort to help our family, do we get in their way and stop them from blessing us?
Which brings me to the final point: husbands. They need to know you need them too. Trust them to get the kids a bath... it's ok if he forgets to wash behind their ears! Trust him to read a bedtime story or tuck them in... no, it WON'T be the way you would do it... it will be the way he would do it which makes it most precious to your children. Dad is not mom... there is a purpose for that. Trust God's design for marriage and parenting ... even in your differences!
This is just a quick-birds-eye-view. Something God has worked with me on over the years... and I am still trying to perfect! Are all these a fail-safe for decluttering your life so you can hear God better and have more Joy in His plans for you every time? No... every life is different and some things... sometimes some of the most taxing things... can't be decluttered. See them as purpose and give Him praise. That may be easier said then done. But it can be done. Take out all that truly, in the end, doesn't matter or can be done by others, and rest in His presence so you might know His will. You and your family will be stronger in the end.
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
I pray you find time each day this week to focus more on the Lord, rest in his presence, and find peace and guidance in even the most chaotic moments of life!
Blessings,
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