The Real Homemaker’s Challenge:: Comparison

I can remember my early dreams of being a house wife and stay-at-home-mom. They always included some cute dressed version of me sipping out of a mug while doing a bible study before anyone else in the house is up. Then I move on to ministering along side my husband in that same cute outfit with a glorious smile across my face. Again, that stylish version of me calmly playing with my
fully-dressed kids who are learning from my every word before I wistfully glide into the kitchen to pull that beautiful meal out of the oven and move it to the set table for dinner. Don’t laugh; you know you have your own ideal picture of being a homemaker!

The Real Homemaker’s Challenge: Comparison

Now that God has given me this grand dream of being a homemaker and SAHM, most days look far from that ideal picture. While I lay in my bed begging for a few more hours of sleep, I kiss my hubs goodbye way too early in the morning as he heads off to the Prison Training Academy where he’s supporting our family as we plant a church. Sleep goes un-granted and my children crawl in my bed whining about their diaper having leaked all over the bed. My wild, dirty hair and I fumble our way down the stairs to create a frozen waffle and peanut butter masterpiece while I appease my hungry, diaper-laden or wet PJ-ed children with brown bananas. Dr Pepper- it’s cold caffeine rather than that of the mugged variety but it is a must for functioning! Showers- for the weak. Bible study- hopefully between rotating nap times. Ministry- on the fly.

Then comes the Comparison: mom guilt fueling motives. I sit down to bla bla blog about my woes, minimal accomplishments, and maybe get in some Facebook fellowship for a moment and there it is. THAT woman. Ya know, the one who does it all, has it all, handles it all while being stylish. Well stank! My thoughts immediately go to, “I should really get off my toosh.” “I could make that.” “I bet my kids would be happier and learn way more for her.” “I can’t homeschool.” “My hubs needs me to be doing this.”

Comparison is from Satan! Christ is not condemning you.

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

God made you to be you and Her to be Her. He’s not asking you to accomplish what she is. He’s not asking you to sport whatever cuteness she is. He’s not asking you to love on your family the exact same way she is. Don’t cop out by searching Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and other blogs to try and find what you’re supposed to be doing. Ask the one who made you for your abilities, you gifts, your talents, your purpose, your life’s calling. Comparing yourself to someone else is only setting you back further from the unique adventure God has especially for you. Rejoice in the blessings God’s given Her and discover the blessings He has in store for You!

More resources available:

• Finding Joy in the Self-Disciplined Life
• Your Cleaning Style
• What’s In Your Closet?: Fashion for Less Edition
• NOT a DIY Diva
• The Cure for Laziness

 

What challenge do you have with comparison and homemaking?

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INTRO to Heart Issues Series

Approval

Here’s the layout for the series {keep in mind, the link will not work until the post has been published}:

Envy

Idolatry