Because you may be doing more than you really have to...

We all have good intentions, don't we? I mean, as women, wives, mothers, we want to have a nice clean home, tasty home-cooked meals, sparkling kitchen sinks, crumb-free floors, updated and undusty home decor, etc., etc., etc.

But, boy, can we really heap the punishment onto ourselves when it comes to the going overboard and going under department.

Lately, I've been able to identify a few things in my life that I've been doing because I thought I had to do them in order to be considered a good housewife. Well, for instance, up until six months ago I thought that the entire house had to be dusted every week in order for me to be properly caring for our home. Then I heard a much older and wiser homeschooling mama say that she leaves such things as dusting go until they have to be done. Why dust if there is no dust to be dusted? Or even if it's just a few specks?

Also, I used to sweep my kitchen floor three to four times a day because I couldn't stand even one single crumb on the floor. That's insane, really. Now I do it once (unless it is really, really bad and I just can't relax, I must confess.)

And I'm really reevaluating my Christmas time schedule and traditions. Traditions are great! Traditions pull families together and give them a sense of identity. But if I'm trying to do every single awesome tradition out there, or all the traditions my girlfriends practice with their families, I'm going to overload both myself and the rest of my family. And when I get overloaded, I get grumpy. It's true. Just ask my kids.

Just because it's a good thing, doesn't mean I (or you, for that matter) have to do it.

So, maybe it's time for you to take a quick reassessment of what you're pouring your energy and time in to. Are those tasks, activities, duties essential? Honestly, the only essentials are what can be found in God's Holy Word. Reevaulate your obligations in the light of God's instruction.

Ask God to give you discernment as you assess your workload. Ask for wisdom as you eliminate unnecessary and time-zapping activities. Look into the Book for direction.

I think you may find that a lot of what you do, you do because others have, in one way or another, led you to believe that those are the things you are supposed to do. But you are yourself. And as long as you're seeking the kingdom of God first, all other things will be added unto you, including a more peaceful and grace-filled schedule.

Have a blessed day!