She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household and a portion to her maidens. She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31:15-20)
Life can get so busy at times that we forget there are others outside of our homes that need serving.
I know for me, having a husband, three children, and a home to run, I tend to forget there are hurting people outside our four walls. I don’t think we intend on being that way, but with the business of life it does happen. While doing my study yesterday morning I realized this. I know I’m doing my duty as a wife and mother taking care of my family, but is there more I can do?
The verses I shared talks about the woman working in her home and reaching out to others. I am a full time stay-at-home wife and mother. So most of the needs I meet are for my husband and children. Cooking, cleaning, bathing, teaching, washing, and etc. are the things I do daily, multiple times a day. The Holy Spirit showed me a little something.
If we can’t joyfully serve those in our home, how can we ever serve those outside of our homes? Ouch………..
That really stung. I know I complain when my boys and yes, even my husband, asks me to do something, and I’m in the middle of doing something else or just don’t want to do it. Some days I’m just tired of dirty floors having to be swept or vacuumed, so I fuss at my boys constantly. Other days I’m tired of cooking three meals a day and I don’t prepare them with a servant’s heart. When I have that attitude towards those I love; what attitude would I have towards those I don’t even know? Think on that.
I should serve my family joyfully even when the things are mundane and not easy. They depend on me and they need me as much as I need them. When I learn to serve my family in this way, I will be ready to serve others. Until then, I will serve others begrudgingly too. That’s not something that pleases the Lord. He wants us to serve our families first, but He also wants us to serve others outside of our four walls. We should see it as an opportunity to shine God’s light to others. I pray this encouraged you. It’s something I needed to hear myself and something I need to apply.
Let’s take a moment to pray……………
Lord, thank You for the examples you give us in scripture about serving others. Thank You for serving us and giving Your Son to die for us. May we serve our husbands with joy. May we love them and respect them. Help us to serve our children with a cheerful heart. May we love them and teach them the way You desire. We are so thankful for your mercy towards us when we fail You. Thank You for never giving up, but always pricking our hearts.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Building strong marriages together,
Heather Strickland
