I am going to share something with you that I would say is surprisingly true. We humans work better with constraints.
Think about that for a second…
It is interesting, but it is true. Constraints tend to cause us to focus in on our goal. On what really matters. They help put everything in perspective.
I have recently wondered if this is one of the main reasons God “time” into our lives. Think about it. It is so very easy to say what our priorities are and it makes us feel so good… but it is only our use of our most precious and limited resource, time, that truly reveals what we care about.
Relating this to parenting… it is easy for us to say family is our core focus… but what does your daily schedule say? What about our work schedule? What about those key family decisions? What about those decisions that trade time for money or prestige or anything else?
What parts of your family routine do you need to plan better? What hidden “time thieves” exist in your home and daily routine? What do you need to cut out completely? Bonus Point: This is also the key to being highly successful at work without sacrificing anything at home. View your work day in this same manner with these same questions.
The encouraging thing is that these very real constraints can help us produce amazing good for God’s kingdom. Being conscious and focusing in on our family produces closeness and relationships that pay life-long dividends. God then uses your example to lead other families to realize there is more to life. Your kiddos grow and realize all that you choose to do for them and with them that others don’t and their love for you will grow even more. Be encouraged. Be mindful of the constraints and make the most of the time you have. You will be glad you did…