There will always be tension between work and family which is why we need to set rigid boundaries. It is a two-fold struggle between our finiteness and our fallenness.
We must first realize and accept the fact that we are not capable of doing everything. We have to make choices. That is actually a blessing that requires us to focus. We have a tendency to try to do more tasks that exceed the time allotted, thinking if we work harder or faster, we can accept more on our plate that is meant to be there. We should embrace our limitations and not strive to be "super woman". All of life requires balance. Our families need to recognize and truly know that our priorities place them ahead of our work. Sacrifices will be required, but they are worth it and you will never be sorry that you made time for your child's school play or other special event instead of working to accomplish one more task. We must be intentional about building high fences to protect what is most important to us----our families. Plan vacations, date nights with your spouse, family activities, special things for your own "down-time" to keep you energized and focused. Be a part of a small group, like a women's Bible study, that will keep you focused on Jesus and also keep you accountable to others so that you can maintain balance.
Balance is maintained by keeping God first by spending time with Him at the beginning of everyday. Spend time in His word and in prayer and it will change your outlook and your demeanor and equip you for whatever you will face that day. ROMANS 12: 1 - 2, is a very good passage to read every day. It says " Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. (2) Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." (HCSB). We need a large group, like our church, to keep us balanced and thirdly, we need an inner circle of two or three people who know us well, who love us deeply and care for us. These are your "BFF's" who you can call any time, day or night, for any need you may have.
We worship through our work. COLOSSIANS 3:23 says " Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for human masters. (NIV). We need to enjoy God throughout our work day. We need to be surrendered to His will and His agenda with open hearts and minds. We need to know God in order to accomplish this and to know Him, we must first know His character. Learn His attributes and make them our own. This will impact every area of our lives and conform us into the women God created us to be. We need to be the same at work as we are at church. People are watching us all the time. We must pursue character and competency just as Daniel did. When Daniel was observed by those who were trying to find fault with him and accuse him, they found nothing wrong except that he prayed three times a day to his God. Excellence is demanded and Christians should always set the standard high with excellent work ethics. We need to love and serve our team at work. Genuinely care about others and do random acts of kindness which will make them ask, "why is she so different?". Bear fruit at your workplace and make it great. PROVERBS 12:14 says " From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward." (NIV)
May you do your work, whether in the workplace or at home, as unto the Lord. May God bless the work of your hands and keep you in the shelter of His wings. You are loved and highly esteemed!
LINDA DAVIS