7 Steps to Enjoying Housework

I smile every time I think about the results of a survey I took several years ago. During a teaching series entitled “The Wise Homemaker,” I asked a hundred women just like you and me, “What keeps you from getting your housework done?” Their answers fell in this order:

• #1 Reason: Poor use of time
• #2 Reason: Lack of motivation
• #3 Reason: Failure to plan
• #4 Reason: Procrastination

I’m smiling and nodding now because I can certainly relate! The items on the list make perfect sense to me!

So, if you’re like me, dear friend, you and I can both thank God that He has shown us His beautiful Proverbs 31 woman who uses her time—indeed, every second of it—and uses it well! Let me pass on some methods that help me “work up” a better attitude and even an eagerness about my work.

Enjoying Housework

1. Embrace God’s will for your life—If you’re uncertain about what God’s will for your life is, you’re seeing it expressed right here in Proverbs 31. Put the message in your words and then own it, love it, tackle it, be committed to it, and dedicate your life to it!
2. Stay in God’s Word—Allow the Spirit of God to energize your heart, mind—and strength—through the power of God’s Word.
3. Develop a vision—Think for a moment about how your daily environment is a direct result of your vision for your home and family, your vision for the beauty and order of a well-run home and for peace under your roof.
4. Pray for an eager attitude—When you turn off your light at night, pray about the work that awaits the next day. Ask God to help you greet the day with an eager attitude (see Psalm 118:24).
5. Create a schedule—A schedule will help you plan your work. You’ll know what’s coming and where you’re going, and you’ll be able to anticipate the pace and envision your next task.
6. Develop a routine—The more work you’re able to fit into a daily routine, the better. Those things you do everyday take less time when they’re part of a routine.
7. Tackle the worst first—There’s no reason to live your days under a cloud of dread because of some challenging or unpleasant task you need to tackle. Simply do that task first! Having the monumental thing out of the way makes the day go more smoothly and easily.

I want you to experience the exhilaration and continuing motivation that come with such noble efforts. So please pause, pray, pour out your heart to God—with tears if they flow—and, relying on His grace, persist in the divine work God has given you to do for Him!

RESPOND

Lord, make us masters of ourselves that we may be the servants of others. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES

Beautiful in God’s Eyes — Experience a richer, more exciting spiritual walk as you embrace God’s design for true beauty in your life. This wonderful resource is a great guide!

REFLECT

“She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms.” (Proverbs 31:17)

REMEMBER

All that stands between your goal
And the deeds you hope to do
And the dreams which stir your soul—Is you!

• May 24, 2018
• No Comments
• Encouragement for Life, Encouragement for Women