It's not been a particularly hectic Monday, for which I am grateful. I am pretty tired though, from a busy Sunday, and so I started out the day a little unmotivated.
However, I went ahead with my exercise program this morning. I'm so glad that I did! My energy level rises, the aches and kinks and knots get worked out a bit, and I do feel better afterward!
I followed my exercise with some time in God's Word, and felt my spirit and emotions brighten after a spiritual "workout", too.
I was then able to make some phone calls, pay a couple of bills, give Isaac's caregiver a to-do list, make lunch for hubby and I, and work on next month's budget with a relaxed, yet energized body and a peaceful mind and spirit.
Managing our households is all about keeping the proper priorities.
Doug and I often use this analogy to keep ourselves mindful of our priorities: When the flight attendants on the airplane give the emergency procedures lecture, they remind the parents that if there is a change in oxygen levels and the oxygen masks fall down, they are to put on their mask first! Then they are to place the mask on their child's face.
I can't help my child breathe if I am passed out in the seat next to him, can I?
It's the same in our homes. I have to take care of myself so that I can be a good mommy to Isaac.
I'm not talking about selfish "Me Time" when I neglect my family to give in to my selfish whims. I mean doing the things for myself that help me to function at my optimal level.
Most of the time, that means that I need to make time for exercise, for Bible study, for proper nutrition. Sometimes it means that I need to have a "play date" with a girlfriend, or to go out window shopping all-by-myself.
I need to be introspective enough to see what is necessary, yet unselfish enough to refuse to be indulgent in my list of "needs".
It's not an easy balance, and I confess that I am not very adept at keeping my priorities right all the time. Just one look at my current physical state will tell the tale on me. I neglected my health for many years, and am now trying to play catch-up.
I'm so glad that God is a forgiving God, and that He is also very merciful when I cry out for help. I know that He is helping me as I continue to keep my priorities in their place and do the things that He has laid on my heart to do.
I use my Mondays to look toward the week ahead so that I can manage the week well. I want to be as diligent in my work, here in my home, as the most highly-paid executive assistant out in the business world.
My work has a wonderful eternal value! No one else in the world can fill my role in this family. I want to do all I can to be the best Manager I can be!
How are you "managing" your home today? I challenge you to rearrange your priorities, and tackle those areas that have been neglected for far too long.
Psalm 116:4 Then called I upon the name of the LORD; O LORD, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.
5 Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.
Obtaining Mercy 