All my life, I've been taught that the woman described in Proverbs 31 is the ultimate standard for a wife and mother. She has been studied and preached about probably millions of times. Chances are, if you go to any church on Mother's Day, you will hear about her. And rightfully so. She is an amazing example of womanhood.
So, what do you do when this example seems impossible to live up to? I think a lot of women might feel this way from time to time, but I am specifically referring to someone in my situation: someone dealing with a chronic illness. I'm not complaining or whining, or even trying to make excuses, just sharing my personal experiences. Some days, I can't even get out of bed. Other days, I get up and sit in a chair, but that's all I can handle. Then there are some good days, when I can do a little bit of housework. It's hard to see my house looking far less than perfect. When we were first married, I kept a clean house, made a home-cooked meal every night, and had extra time for craft projects.
I'm learning to accept my limitations. I'm trying to learn to adjust to a lack of energy, and feeling of fatigue. I'm trying to realize there are days that I just need to rest, even though I have so much to do. It's not easy sometimes - I am a perfectionist, and some days, I feel literal pain to see how I am not keeping up with things the way I would like.
I'm trying not to be a discouragement here! I know at times I feel it's hopeless, but I won't give up trying to live up to her example. After all, as Christian's, our goal is to be Christ-like. I KNOW none of us can achieve that, but that does not mean we should not try! As long as I have any strength at all, I will keep giving my best to my family, and praying for the additional strength that I need.
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I think the really important thing to note is not the actions of the "Proverbs 31 woman" but the heart behind her actions. Why did she do what she did? Simple because she loved God and she Loved her family. If you aren't able to do exactly as she does, its ok, as long as your heart is towards the love of God and the love for your family. I know from experience that is exactly where your heart it, and we all know that's what God looks at above our actions. Our heart will drive our actions, not the other way around. :)
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