You want to know what brings my children utter joy?Cleaning.
Yes. I am dead serious. These Beans were BEGGING - seriously - begging me to help clean the house today....nothing brought them joy like getting to stand on the sink and Windex the mirror. Jumping Bean had the treat of dusting....a chore she sang her way through! And String Bean vacuumed their room for me!
And yes, I am aware that a light bulb needs to be changed....just add it to my "to do" novella.
It appears the constant discussions on the Fruit of the Spirit (Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control Galatians 5:22-23) are really sinking in.
We've been seeking to apply the fruits in our every-day actions, interactions, and observations. (Nothing like actively applying Truth!) From analyzing the characters in a book -such as Belle vs. The Beast; to assessing a fit of anger; to figuring out what those attributes look like - for REAL; we have been learning quite a lot.
It has really helped the attitude in the house level out.
Mommy included.
I am not off the hook in these discussions, unfortunately.
Just like when they snatch a toy, pitch a fit, or leave a job unfinished (not showing - love, kindness, self-control, or faithfulness) ... Mommy sins as well. When I raise my voice and yell at them - I am lacking self-control, kindness, gentleness, patience, and love. When I don't take my time to answer their questions - I am lacking patience, kindness, and faithfulness. There are plenty of examples of my failure to exhibit these qualities....so I'll just leave it there for now!
Feel free to read...pretty much any other post, to see proof of my sinful nature!
So now the question we all ask each other is this:
"Is that a fruity thing to do?"
Then we giggle, recite the verses, and seek to be more of a home filled with the Spirit.
Copyright 2010
OH that is a great thing. Thanks for the "fruity" idea! My kids love helping around the house too. Moira likes to vacuum, Alex likes to wipe the various hard surfaces around the house (and those with soft surfaces too like the couch)and Eliza just likes to watch but she helps too by seeing how fast she collects all the shoes.
ReplyDeleteWell, I could use some of that "fruit" today! Getting too old to do all the dusting, vacuuming, mopping, straightening, etc. myself, and can't afford to pay someone. The result--a dirty house, which doesn't please the Lord. I guess, a little at a time will get the job done to His glory. He didn't say our houses should be perfect...I haven't found that in Scripture yet...Mine is sanitary......that's all (-;
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked the idea! Having scripture infused in daily living has really helped this house!
ReplyDeleteJane - so long as you ARE keeping the home...and your sanity!....I think you are good. :)
Whitney, I love your blog! Your children are just precious, and I am amazed at how what a great wife & mother you are, especially in the midst of a deployment. Hope to continue to follow along with your adventures. :)
ReplyDeletethanks for the encouragement sarah! I really enjoyed reading YOUR blog - what a special love story you have! Hope you have a wonderful day.
ReplyDelete