I’ve been studying in Proverbs lately and something new struck me today. First, let me share what I’ve gleaned from previous study. (Photos are random from recent weeks.)
Proverbs 15:17 – Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it.
Proverbs 17:1 – Better is a dry morsel with quiet than a house full of feasting with strife.
Another reader in the family!
My take away from earlier study: That it’s better for us to eat cereal for dinner in a loving and peaceful atmosphere than to go all out to make a big family meal that leaves me stressed and flustered. I desire for the meals I make and for mealtime to be a blessing for my family, so if preparing an extensive meal doesn’t do that, then change the plan. Of course there are times where we make special meals that are full of fancier dishes and take much more prep time – holidays, birthdays, special celebrations, etc. But again, the goal is that the food and the time together is a blessing to everyone. This concept has changed the way I look at food and meal planning. Of course I don’t WANT to serve cereal for dinner, but I have taken a simpler approach to meals so that mama remains peaceful and calm.
Barbie hanging from a Lego helicopter – uh-oh.
Ok, fast forward to present when I came across these passages again. Could these verses be an argument for taking care of ourselves and our souls? Not only taking time for ourselves, but making the time to be in the Word – soul care. THAT is what makes us a peaceful and calm mama, right? When I make the time for a walk before I pick up kids from school – I’m clearing my mind, becoming calmer, and making myself ready to be available for them during homework and mealtime. When I choose to study the Bible versus folding laundry – I’m creating peace in my soul that will better serve my family later in the day. I’m not suggesting we ignore all home chores and just spend hours a day with our nose in the Bible. I’m suggesting we find a balance of the two that will serve and bless our families.
Babysitting Cousin Luke
Proverbs also talks about one of the problems that can disrupt a peaceful home:
Proverbs 21:9 – It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.
Proverbs 21: 19 – It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman.
Ouch. I admit sometimes this is me. But I don’t want it to be. If a walk, a rest, or being in the Word can fix this problem, then I say, “Yes! Make time for it!”
Polishing Hot Wheels cars
The first verses mention love and quiet as a goal, and where there is love and quiet, there is peace. Lord, help us find a balance in our daily schedules to foster a peaceful home that will bless the members of our families.
