motherhood & Proverbs 31...

A sweet friend linked to this (10 Point Manifesto of Joyful Parenting w/free printout) on her blog and I am following suit.

What sweet, sweet encouragement and gentle conviction to live a life that glorifies our Heavenly Father.  Embarking upon this mission as a parent, as a mother, as a wife and whatever other hat you may wear cannot be done without your face...your heart, turned...listening to the slightest of whisper of the Lord.

sleeping little one's hands

The Proverbs 31 woman is not an imaginary "ideal" woman.  She is a woman who had her heart turned to the Lord, at His feet, who through His grace, accomplished the goals and plans He had set before her.  Had she relied upon her own strength and good intentions, I gently think, she would have failed miserably.  God's love, His strength, is made perfect in our weakness and would we see Him working so lovingly and majestically in our lives if we were so confident in our own abilities?

¹² She brings him {her husband} good, not harm, 

   all the days of her life. 
¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
   her arms are strong for her tasks. 
²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor 
   and extends her hands to the needy.
²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity; 
   she can laugh at the days to come.²⁶ She speaks with wisdom, 
   and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 
²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household 
   and does not eat the bread of idleness.
³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; 
   but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 
(Proverbs 31:12,17,20,25,27,30)   

Great grandma, our sweet boy & green beans...

I am humbled every day at what gets accomplished, because of Him and my heart attitude towards the day...and yes, His grace is mighty when my heart falls short.

"Open my eyes that I may see 

   wonderful things in your law." (Psalm 119:18)