Tip of the Day 5/2/12

A houseful of things that don't fit your lifestyle (not enough time to dust it all or overflowing closets) is a chaotic house. By eliminating the overflow you can organize your home and enjoy it. Things that require a lot of upkeep are fine if you like to spend your time doing that. But if you would rather spend time doing other things than cleaning or trying to find a place to sit in your house, it is time to clear some things out. If your house feels like a burden it is time to decide what needs to go. By reducing what you have and sticking to standards on basic items (dishes, towels, and sheets like mentioned last week), you not only gain space, you also gain freedom to enjoy your home and the things that really matter. Once the kitchen is streamlined you will be able to prepare meals without the frustration of not being able to locate the needed pan or ingredients. Your home should be a haven and a place you want to spend time, not avoid. Wouldn't it be nice to have a home that no matter when someone dropped by you were able to welcome them and maybe even invite them to stay for dinner.

Word for Today, Everywhere: Years ago I organized a presentation for teenage girls and young women on sexual purity. As a part of the day a skit was performed in which a young girl who claimed to be a believer in Christ was preparing to go to a party her parents were unaware of. She knew she should not be going, but chose to anyway. As she was getting ready to go Jesus was following her around the house and she was trying to explain to Him why she didn't need Him with her for that part of her life. The thing is when we ask Jesus to live in our hearts He is there. We don't get to pick when we want Him with us. He is everywhere we are. If we are living in a way pleasing to Him this is very comforting, but if we are doing things that we know He would not approve of we believe we can lock Him out of the room. It doesn't work that way. He is God and He is everywhere. Are you comfortable with sharing your choices of activities with Him present? "Surely the Lord is in this place. My presence will go with you. You are the temple of the living God."