Building a HOME

The atmosphere in the home is created not only by the decor, but by the attitude of it's members. The wife's attitude is pivotal. She is the one that sets the tone for the day. She can defuse an potentially explosive situation and comfort hurts. She can sooth anxiety and encourage the downcast.

She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her.

Proverbs 31:26-28

A virtuous woman creates a place of peace, although not always perfection. She is responsible for making the house feel like a home, but with a contentious mindset, a sharp tongue and a discontent spirit she can tear down her house with her own hands.

The wise woman builds her house,
but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

Proverbs 14:1

These are skills that have to be developed and rarely come naturally to a woman. They have to be taught and lived out. They are learned in the everyday life, often failing over and over again as we give into our selfishness. In order to make a house a home, to meet the needs of family members (especially our husbands) and make guest feel welcome, a woman must humbly call on God for wisdom and courage. She must also muster up every bit of self discipline that is in her to reject the lies of the culture and practice giving of herself.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31:30-31

Use this Christmas season to go the extra mile to create a HOME with pleasant memories. Shower others with forgiveness and grace.