1 Corinthians 15:58 tells us to ABOUND in the work of the Lord. Motherhood is the great work God has given us to do, so why not do it with right attitude?
What kind of attitude? The Bible tells us to have an abounding attitude. The word in the Greek is “perisseuo” and literally means “"to excel, to super-abound, to be excessive, abundant, enough and to spare, over and above.”
Now that’s “over the top” living, isn’t it? Is it possible live this way? In our daily life in our homes? Well, this is what God asks of us because He does not want us to live our lives according to our fleshly nature but to allow Him to live His victorious life in us. The life of Jesus is not normal. It is over and above, more than enough, superabundant.
So, let’s get started. This is what we do.
You don’t smile on the odd occasion. You smile constantly. Whenever you look at your husband, you smile at him. Do you like to do this? When you look at your children, you smile at them. When you come out of your bedroom in the morning, you come with a happy face and a cheery “Good morning” to each one. You won’t believe what a difference this makes in your home.
When you encourage your children to do their chores, instead of nagging, you find ways to make it exciting for them. Inspire them. Teach them how to work with a smile. To do it with all their hearts. That won’t be hard for them because they see you doing everything in your home with all your heart.
They don’t see you groaning, complaining, and going around with a sour face. They see you smiling and getting “stuck in” to every task. You teach them the same way.
Whatever task you do, you do it enthusiastically. Happily. Excitedly.
Teach your children the little rhyme on page 16 in my nursery rhyme book, “Nanny’s Nursery Rhymes.” This book is currently on sale at www.aboverubies.org.
Here are the words:
When I have to do a chore,
I do it straight away,
I never grumble or complain,
There’s always time to play.
I put a smile upon my face,
Because I know it’s right.
I put my shoulder to the task,
And do it with my might.
Get your children to memorize the words and say them while they work. Make up a tune for it so you can all sing it as you work.
When it’s time to prepare meals, don’t sigh because there’s another meal to cook. Do it with a joyful heart. Make every meal a love affair. Go beyond the normal and make it special. Praise the Lord you have the opportunity to make nourishing healthy meals for your husband and children.
Throw yourself into your great calling. Don't do it half-heartedly, or half-time. Don't do it grumblingly, grudgingly, or grouchily.
Never the status quo, but more than is necessary.
Have a fun day,
NANCY CAMPBELL
Painting: Roger Wilkinson, “The Suburban Legend.”