Finding balance in the every day

 

Daily balance is something that I struggle with. As a mother of two (soon to be three) with a nursing job, a brand-new fixer-upper, and a schedule that is nowhere near predictable, balance has proven to be extremely difficult.

I’ve realized that when I allow distractions to find their way in, my stress level rises and I turn away from what’s really important.

After much trial and error, I’ve been able to hone in on my top 6 priorities.  Writing them down, allow me to focus on what’s important and keep me distraction-free.

I think everyone’s priorities vary slightly, but what has helped keep me on track, is to jot down the non-negotiables and place them in order of what’s most important to least.  In my case, all of these are super duper important and if I don’t tackle each IN THIS ORDER (or as close to it as I possibly can) my day doesn’t seem to click.

I keep the list simple and it looks something like this:

1. Prayer time/studying of the word – This is my number one priority.  Somedays, I am able to sip some coffee while I study, pray and sing and some days I pause for a one minute prayer.  Whatever the case, spending time in the word and in prayer sets the tone for my day.
2. Marriage- Other than my relationship with God, my relationship with Alex is my top priority.  I do my best at making sure that Alex and I are communicating effectively and that I’m showing him that I love him through acts of service. My friend Betty calls it “marriage bliss” and if we don’t have that intimate connection to one another, our home doesn’t function well.
3. Children– Raising Godly children is my calling and it’s one I take very seriously. Am I teaching Grace and Haddon God’s word?  Am I teaching them how to love God? Am I being a good example to them?  Are they making a difference in the kingdom?
4. Work– I am a nurse. I usually work at a hospital 3 days a week and although I love my profession, it’s not something I see myself doing for much longer.  For that reason, I find it very difficult to pour my heart and energy into improving my skills and knowledge in the field. I place my job on my master list, because I believe that as Christians, we should be an example in the workplace by working as onto God rather than men (Colossians 3:23)
5. Home– Vacuuming, dusting, laundry, dishes, DIY reno projects… there is something always to do at home. My priority is not to try and get it ALL done, but to tackle what needs to be done now. For example, are our uniforms ready for the next day? Do the kids have clean clothes? Is there mold growing around our tub? Do I need to restock my fridge? Did the dog go out? etc. I don’t believe that we should allow dirty clothes or dishes to pile up for weeks at a time, but I do think that everything needs to be placed on a scale and that sometimes it’s ok if if the clothes is clean and it’s sitting on my bed for a couple of days before I get around to folding it.
6. Blogging– This is my outlet.  My opportunity to be creative and to express myself. However, most importantly, it’s a platform that I have been given to show others Christ.  My priority is to use this platform to be a blessing to others rather than to ramble about my day (which I sometimes do)

Throw in there doctor appointments, work emergencies, diaper explosions at target, doggy throw up, and you have yourself my typical day. I’m sure you have your own list of crazy “typical day” examples. The good news is that regardless of what’s thrown your way, if your top priority is always finding time to focus on Christ and on His word, finding balance will just be a matter of perspective.

Also, I like to meditate (think about, repeat in my head, throughout my day) specific verses that help keep me focused.

• Psalm 19:14 let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
• Joshua 24:15 … Choose this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord
• Psalm 127:3 Children are a gift from the Lord
• Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me
• Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint
• Colossians 3:23 whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters
• Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light
• Matthew 25:23 His master replied, well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your masters happiness!

Oh dear mama, I hope you find a little encouragement in this post. Balance comes and goes, but your heart and spirit are eternal and His love and grace which is extended to you will carry you through all of the explosive diapers, temper tantrums, crazy work schedule and sleepless nights.

Praying for you today!

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