Tuesday, April 29, 2008

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.


13 comments:

Miriam Pauline said...

This post is filled with wisdom! Bless you for sharing.

Tami said...

I appreciate the reminder not to tear my own house down. Good thoughts.

And thanks for all your kind words and good wishes on my blog. You do my heart good, Susan. Have a great day, friend.

Christin said...

Susan, what a beautiful illustration! Thanks so much for your thoughts on this quote. I have come across several blogs who have quoted that verse from Proverbs. What a beautiful and wise verse it is! Something I need to have hung up in a conspicuous place in my home as a reminder. God bless you!

Tonya said...

Susan, You inspire me! God seems to POUR out HIS love & direction through you each time you write. I stand amazed at all you've gleaned from the WORD and from the older and wiser among you.

YES, let us be a LIGHT and PURE JOY in our homes! Let us ignite a passion for FUN and contagious laughter each and every day!

Thank You, for helping us learn GOD'S way of doing things...

I LOVE YOU, my SWEET SISTER!

Sheryl said...

What a great post and a great reminder. I set the tone and the example in my home. My kids need to see Jesus me. Thanks for sharing.

Sheryl

Kelley said...

This is great Susan! I know exactly what you mean about being a builder vs. tearing down. We would never destroy a tangible home and yet we often don't think twice about harsh words and criticism that tears others down. I am so glad we can learn from God's word and allow His Spirit to enable us. I am also grateful for the encouragement we can be to one another!!!

I am still praying for your Son. Let me know how things are going in Taiwan.

Love,
Kelley

Heather said...

So well written Susan! I want to build up my home with words of encouragement! Amen!
That cartoon was a hoot!

Faerylandmom said...

"There will always be challenges to face each day, but how we respond will truly determine the spiritual climate in our homes."

I so wish that I didn't have to face challenges...I wish God would just snap his fingers and make me perfect...

I'm kidding, of course. Mostly. :-)

Thank you so much for your wisdom on this point.

Mimi said...

Hi Susan,
It was so good to be back home and catch up on the blogs I had missed while I was visiting my sweet daughter and grand children. When I returned I had trouble for a couple of days getting into bloglines...but this morning everything seems to be working fine...so I will say Hi and I am so happy that Joseph made it safely to Taiwan, and Jordon's tests came out well...
{{Hugs}}
Mimi

Tonya said...

Hey Susan! I was just checking in to see if you did a "WFW" post.

Can't wait to hear from you again...

LOVE YOU!

luvmy4sons said...

Your prayer is mine as well. I say AMEN! AMEN!

Faith said...

Loved this....I truly needed this today.
You have alot of wisdom here in your words.

Anonymous said...

Great reminder of great wisdom from God!
Be blessed!