Is Mama Happy?

"If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!'" We smile as we read the wall plaque in the novelty store. But our smile quickly turns to a frown if truly "Mama ain't happy." This is because the wife and mother in a family often "sets the tone" in the home. The "tone" God wants her to set is one of joy, optimism, and a delight in the Lord and in her family. If your family were called upon to describe you, what would they say?"~Martha Peace, "The Excellent Wife"


I must say I had to laugh when I first read today's quote. What woman has never heard this quoted to her at some time in her life? I think most men would say a great big AMEN. After all, many men live with this reality each day.

In our community the Home-Builders Association just had what they call "The Parade of Homes". There are 2 weekends each year you get to view some of the most beautiful homes in our area that are for sale. Cars line up all along the roped off streets, and there are people everywhere going in and out of these dream homes. My husband and I along with some friends decided to go view them after church this past Sunday. I think I must of mentally moved in around 6 houses in one day. I was exhausted when we were finished, but it was so much fun dreaming of living in one of these gorgeous homes.

It seems like it's just second nature for a woman to want to set up a home. Nesting comes early on for most women as we begin playing house as little girls.

I'll never forget when we built our first home. I was so excited as each phase was completed and counted the days until we finally moved in. I wanted everything to be just perfect, after all, it was going to be a reflection of who I was, and what I wanted others to see.

In the book of Proverbs 14:1 it says "The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down."

The thought of tearing down all that we built would the most disastrous thing I could ever do. Yet everyday I'm faced with the choice as a mother and wife to build or tear down my home by my words, actions, attitude and example. God has entrusted us as women with this huge responsibility. There will always be challenges to face each day, but how we respond will truly determine the spiritual climate in our homes.

I pray that I will be a reflection of the wise woman, one that always sets the tone of joy and optimism as I build my home.

Lord, help me to be an example of that wise woman you spoke of in Proverbs. Let my testimony be one of a God fearing woman. Teach me to be diligent in the care my family and tone I set each day. Forgive me as I fail so miserably many times. Thank you for your mercy and grace that I need each day to bring you honor.

Please join us over at As Gold Refined for today's In Other Words.