Making Room for Guests

It has always been a dream of mine to have a guest room.

Since hearing the story of The Shunammite Woman in 2 Kings 4:8-17 , I wanted to be that host! Always ready with simple essentials for guest, whether they are just coming to chat or stopping for an over-nighter. Having this mindset has helped me be prepared and not frantic when just such an occasion happens. And being prepared has made me eager! Eager to have guest in my home. I enjoy having people in my home on a regular basis.

I would like to share with you some of my thoughts through creating a room for guests, specifically overnight guests. I wanted to keep in mind that it’s not always practical to have an entire room dedicated to the occasional passer-through so I’ve broken these tips down so everyone can benefit from those who have a guest room an those who can offer floor space!

BEDROOM
Bed: Overnight guests would LOVE a place to sleep.

• Guest Room- full or larger is nice so if you have a couple they can stay together and if they are single, it’s just bonus. I know it’s more expensive; my father-in-love purchased ours when they were our guests often!
• Floor Space- hide-away-couch, air mattress, futon, or trundle-bed spare sheets that could be ready in a moment’s notice.

Table: Guests have stuff just like we do and need a place to lay it other than the floor. This space would also be a nice place to provide a lamp, tissues, and/or a clock.

• Guest Room- a nice end table would be cute but any small table next to the bed will work.
• Floor Space- just be prepared to clear an area for your guest to ‘store’ their things while visiting.

Chair: Some guests may like to sleep sitting in a chair {for medical reasons or just comfort} or just like a sit to put their shoes on.

• Guest Room- we have a nice recliner {once again purchased by my lovely father-in-love} which is nice for sleeping in or just lounging while surfing the net. A discarded dining chair, rocking chair, or bench would also work nicely.
• Floor Space- having a chair {or maybe even a couch} for extra sleeping arrangements that you are prepared to cover in some extra bedding works great.

Also take into consideration is the length of time they will be staying; they may appreciate the WiFi password, a small TV, or a dresser/closet space.

BATHROOM
Toilet: Overnight guests would LOVE a place to us the restroom {any guest for that matter, hehe}.

• Guest Room- even though this room may not be used often you need to make sure to double check it’s cleanliness.
• Floor Space- Regular cleaning should be fine but make sure you have back-up toilet paper {I LOVE a simple hook off the back of the tank that holds 1 extra roll}.

Shower: Depending on the length of the stay this may not be something you worry about but I just assume if someone is staying the night they would like a shower in the morning {just to be prepared}.

• Guest Room- even though this room may not be used often you need to make sure to double check it’s cleanliness and that it has fresh towels/washcloths.
• Floor Space- Regular cleaning should be fine although you may want to remove your children’s toys from the tub and store them out of the way, remove dirty laundry {especially ‘personal’ items}, and make sure they have all the necessary toiletries, fresh towels/washcloths available

• Sink and mirror: Everyone needs a sink for brushing teeth, washing their face, or to simply ‘get ready’ in front of a mirror.

• Guest Room- routine cleaning works well and placing toiletries on the counter top can be a fun way to make your guest feel like they are at a cute bed-and-breakfast or nice hotel.
• Floor Space- cleaning off your counter top will make your guest feel free to use the sink and mirror. Make sure there is hand soap and a clean towel {during flu season, paper towels to cut back on passing germs}.

Provide emergency toiletries/necessities: shampoo, body wash, face wash, bubble bath, lotion, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouth wash, floss, brush, comb, hair dryer, feminine products, razors, etc.

Hope these hints help you prepare a room for guests! How is God calling you to “prepare a place” for guests?