Introduction

This is my first post on this blog. I want to use this blog to record my growth in the Lord and my knowledge of the Word. I am taking an ETS (Equipped to Serve) class at church, called Practical Theology, which I believe will teach me a lot. But I have grown so much in this last month with a book called Feminine Appeal by Carolyn Mahaney. My relationship with my husband has improved, not that it was ever really bad, but knowing what I do now, I don't ever want to go back. We've been married 8 years with 3 kids and I am completely giddy about him again. I've learned how to be beautiful in God's eyes, rather than in society's eyes. In fact I realize now, some of the most beautiful women I know aren't super models. They are models of Jesus. Because they are so beautiful on the inside they are are beautiful on the outside as well. They're not all skinny, they don't have "perfect" noses, skin, hair etc. What they have is a "quiet and gentle spirit" (1 Peter 3:3-4).
I have learned so much about submission. I used to feel ashamed of my submissiveness to my husband. It's easy to feel that way in this society. So many "succesful working women" ask me "What do you do all day?", or say things like "I could never be just a stay at home mom. My brain needs stimulation." I used to feel small next to them. But now, I realize I am the stronger one here. It's not natural for us to submit to our husbands, and stay home with the children. It's not natural to want to live our lives for our husbands. It is called of us to do so (Titus 2:3-5, 1 Peter 3:1-6), and when we do, everything falls in line. There is order in the home. Obviously the husband needs to do his part for that to happen as well. (1 Peter 3:7, Colossians 3:19, Proverbs 31:28-31) And as far as brain stimulation goes, I can't think of a job more stimulating than juggling 3 little ones schedules, house hold chores and a husbands needs, all while trying to make sure that my kids grow up to be loving followers of Christ. That takes a lot of brain power if you ask me! But what do I know, I am just a housewife. :-) Sorry, couldn't help myself!
I learned in this book, how important it is to love my children. Not just inside but through my actions. They respond so much better to direction when we let go of what ever inhibitions we have and just love on them. Verses that helped me with this were Psalm 127:3, Psalm 113:9, Psalm 127:4-5, Proverbs 23:24. It puts things into perspective when you realize, God gave us our children as a gift. But they are not for our pleasure only. He entrusted us with His children to raise them in His name. It's not about us, it's about Him. It's not about what makes us happy, comfortable or feel good about ourselves. It's about honoring the Lord. This is not possible without God. Naturally, we are selfish human beings. Look at a 2 year old if you don't believe me. We learn selflessness. And we don't learn it well with out Him. Prayer is a huge part of parenting. Without God, parenting is a rough ride. I've tried to do it without Him, although not purposely, I just kind of drifted away. I am on my way back now and it has made a huge difference. God is good, Amen?
Well, I think I have rambled on enough for today and I need to get going. Until next time.