Picture of Serving Joyfully

What does it look like to serve our families with a joyful spirit?

I started this blog 2 years ago, and titled it “Serving Joyfully” because that is the longing of my heart. I believe the Lord called me to be a keeper of the home. And I want to serve my family–not begrudgingly, but joyfully.

I still have that desire, but I have to be honest and tell you that I haven’t mastered this just yet. Some days, things remain undone that need to be done. Some days, things are done, but with a poor attitude. I am a work in progress.

I have shared here before that I long for a simpler lifestyle. I feel a constant tension between the longing of my heart, and this modern world I am living in. I have been reading this book, Amish Values for Your Family. It is a fantastic book and one that I strongly recommend. I have no connection to this particular book, except that I purchased it and have really enjoyed it.

Anyway, when reading it a few nights ago, I read a particular story about laundry day for this Amish family. Everything was done by hand, and the process took hours, and was done in all different kinds of weather–the hottest of days, and the coldest of days. The author even mentioned that in some winter days the water would freeze up between loads. Overall, the process seemed like such an awful chore.

After years and years of this hard work, the district decided to allow gas-powered washing machines. The man of the house offered to buy one for Christmas.

My response would have been “Yes!” I would probably be elated, and ready to throw a party.

But not the mother in this story. She said no. Her husband reminded her that the machine would cut the job in half.

Her response: “As I wash those clothes, I use the time to pray for each one of my children. That’s not time I want cut in half.”

Wow. Just wow.

So humbling to see that response, and compare it to what I know mine would have been. And it reminded me of how far I have to go.

This woman and her response are the epitome of serving joyfully. She had an awful, inconvenient, tiresome chore. She could have dreaded it, begrudged it, and focused on the negative. She would have had a crabby attitude that would rub off on her children, her husband, and her home.

But instead, she chose to serve her family, and her God, with a joyful and loving spirit. Such an inspiration.

The words from Colossians 3:23 are always so convicting to me, And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.

The Lord is always there, and every single thing I do for my family, I should do joyfully, and heartily, as if I am doing it for Him…because I am.

Lord, I pray that you will give me a heart of love, selflessness, and service for my family. When I am in the midst of the mundane tasks of homemaking and parenting, I pray that the fruits of the Spirit would reign in my heart. I pray that I wouldn’t see chores as burdensome, but would instead have a heart of thanksgiving, and joy as I serve my family, and serve you through them. Thank you Lord for your grace and mercy that is new each morning. Amen.

Continue reading here: Yummy No-bake Cookies & A Gooseberry Patch Cookbook Review!

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Readers' Questions

  • amerigo davide
    How to joyfull serve me family at home?
    9 months ago
    1. Treat your family with respect and kindness. Show your love by giving hugs, praising them, and speaking to them in a loving tone.
    2. Make time for quality conversations, activities, and meals. Quality time spent together helps strengthen family bonds.
    3. Participate in household duties and chores. Show your family that you’re willing to pitch in and help out.
    4. Spend time outside together. Go for a walk, ride bikes, or take a trip to the park.
    5. Practice gratitude. Show your family how much you appreciate them by expressing your gratitude.
    6. Celebrate special occasions and milestones. Celebrating these special moments in life builds stronger relationships.
    7. Listen to your family. Listen to their stories and points of view with an open mind and heart.
    8. Set a good example. Your actions and attitudes will be emulated by others in your family.