My Family is Weird

So don't let anyone condemn you for what you eat or drink, or for not celebrating certain holy days or new moon ceremonies or Sabbaths. For these rules are only shadows of the reality yet to come. And Christ himself is that reality. {Colossians 2:15-17}

Is it just me or are y'all criticized for making certain life decisions? I know I can't be the only one, right?

Before I get any messages about the irony or the hypocrisy of this particular post, let me say that I'm very aware how this MIGHT come across to some. I'm very aware that it's my opinion that no one else's opinion should matter, but Jesus's.

Are we all on the same page? Good!! Let's dive in, shall we?

On a daily basis, each and every one of us are bombarded with questions about our life style choices. Will you stay home once the baby comes? Are you going to breast feed? Cloth vs disposable? When should you start solids? Will your child start a Mother's Day Out or will they be home? Will you go back to work or will you devote your life to serve your family? Will they attend public, private, or homeschool?

How often will your family be involved in church? How will you celebrate certain holidays? Will your child be involved in sports or will academics take center stage?

You want to know what makes my family weird? We fiercely love Jesus. I only allow Praise and Worship in my home and in my car {jamming out with their dad on the way to soccer is a different story}. We homeschool. My husband and I treat ourselves to an adult beverage after the kids go to bed quite often. My husband is the head of our household. You will find us at the soccer field on any given night. My husband is responsible for the laundry. I've got dibs on yard work. I make my husband's plate for dinner as a sign of respect for him. We rarely agree on anything, but we love each other enough to support any and all our crazy ideas.

I have a deep desire to honor and respect my husband as best as I can. I realized a long time ago that being "just" a wife and mother is what the Lord called me to do in this season. I don't know how long this season will last, but you better believe that I'm relishing every moment. I have dreams of owning a business one day, going on missions, and giving as much as I can. Right now, my husband and my children need me. There is no doubt in my mind that I was made specifically for them and I'm so humbled that the Lord has entrusted their care to me.

The ability to encourage those around you, being humble, dressing modestly, blessing those around you, and respecting authority are paramount in our household. Our girls WILL be raised to know their strength in the Lord. In a world where so many women are being taught that they are equal to men, our girls will be raised to complete their husband, not compete with him.

 Don't allow anyone to make you feel depreciated for making a decision that you've prayed over. You've made your life decisions for a reason. You've been called by the Lord Almighty to raise your family to glorify Him. You've been convicted over any given topic for a reason. You've prayed and sought out reliable counsel. Be confident in your ability to raise your family the way the Lord has called you to.

 Your personalities, strengths, weaknesses, and interests are completely different from mine. AND THAT'S OKAY!!! The Lord knows what each and everyone of you needs on a daily basis. You might need more time away from your children during the day. You might need more adult interaction than I do. Your children might flourish in a classroom setting with other children their age.

As long as you are doing the best that you can to fulfill the needs of your family {whether you think you are succeeding or not} I salute you mama! You are my hero! In the spirit of the Olympics going on at the moment, remember one thing : Winners focus on winning. Losers focus on the winners. Don't compare yourself to others, keep your focus on Jesus, and follow the plan He has set out for your life. You can do this! Whatever it is - you can do it! With everyone being as busy as they are, its going to be hard, but find a few mamas in your area that will encourage you and cling to her {not in a creepy way, though}.

So there you have it - my opinion on the fact the other's opinions shouldn't matter! I hope this little rant has blesses, encourages and invigorates you today. You are the wife and the mama you need to be your family. Be confident in the abilities the Lord has blessed you with.

In the Meantime - Love God Greatly,
Whitney