In this episode, things are a bit more casual as I share the latest updates on the blog and podcast. I give a peek into my personal time in the Word in the mornings and share a few of my current favorite things. So grab a coffee or tea and come sit with me a bit xoxo.  Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes on all the links and resources mentioned in today's episode.  Friends of Thankful Homemaker on Patreon  RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo 

Setting spiritual priorities through a biblical lens helps us focus on glorifying God in every aspect of our lives. We will discuss the impact of such priorities on our daily spiritual growth and provide practical tips for setting and achieving spiritual goals. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Spiritual Priorities PDF Planning Guide Shopping for Time by Carolyn Mahaney Support Thankful Homemaker on Patreon  RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo 

God's Word, prayer, and fellowship are gifts from the Lord. He uses these to graciously shape us into Christ's image, strengthen our faith, and grow us in godliness. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Means of Grace to Grow in Godliness PDF Handout Spiritual Disciplines Series Support Thankful Homemaker RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo   

Mary's humble and obedient servant-like approach inspires Christian homemakers to transform their homes into nurturing spaces of faith and trust, echoing her commitment to serve according to God's plan Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Luke (Reformed Expository Commentary by Philip Graham Ryken 2023 Christmas Gift Guide All Christmas Posts & Podcasts Support Thankful Homemaker RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo   

As we walk through Colossians 3:1-4, we will discuss the importance of setting our minds on things above, walk through what it means to live our lives hidden with Christ in God, and the transformative effect this can have on our earthly and eternal lives Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Thankful Homemaker Patreon RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

Sharing simple Thanksgiving planning and traditions to keep Christ at the center of your family’s celebration. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Thanksgiving Planning Course - Code THANKFUL for 25% off Resources to Help Your Family Celebrate a Christ-Focused Thanksgiving All Thanksgiving Resources at the Blog Amazon Thanksgiving Book Recommendations  RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

Jesus' words have authority because He is God. Whether it was the original hearers of the Sermon on the Mount or present-day readers of the Bible, we cannot argue or disagree with the teachings in this sermon because they are the direct words of God Matthew 7:28-29: 28 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Hi-Contrast Hymn Book (Get 10% OFF your entire order when you purchase two books or more with promo code 10OFF2.) All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Spotify Sermon on the Mount Playlist Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Patreon Support Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

My husband and I have been attending the G3 Conference in Atlanta since 2017. I want to share some of my favorite aspects of the conference (with the hope you’ll put it on your list for 2025) and provide some helpful resources so you can benefit from the conference at home. G3+ App - sign up here and use the code MARCIG3PLUS for two months free. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

In Matthew 7:24-27, we find a contrast between the wise man who builds his house on the rock and the foolish man who builds his house on the sand. The foundation on which we build our lives is critical when the storms of life come. The wise man hears and practices the words of Jesus, building his house on the Rock, which is immovable. In contrast, the foolish man hears but does not practice the words of Jesus, building his house on sand, which is unstable, and in the end, he will fall. Matthew 7:24-27: 24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Flexiclip Special & Giveaway All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Spotify Sermon on the Mount Playlist Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Patreon Support Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

The sin of grumbling or complaining, whether silently or aloud, is a sin against the Lord. It implies that, at that moment, I am saying Jesus is not enough. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes The Sin of Grumbling @Susan Heck Sin of Grumbling @Date Night with the Woods Thankful Homemaker Patreon RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

Whether you’re a new homemaker or a seasoned one, we all desire to find joy in caring for our homes and to do all our work as unto the Lord. Here are some simple encouragements to help you in the care of your home. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Homemaking Encouragement Podcasts & Posts at Thankful Homemaker Free Library of Printables Jumpstart your Mornings Free Mini-Course EP 79: Homemaking Matters: A Good God Working Out His Purposes in the Midst of Our Ordinary Days RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo   

Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:21-23 not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter the kingdom of Heaven. How do we know if we are known by Jesus? How do we know if we are self-deceived? Is our profession merely verbal or intellectual knowledge, or are we those who are truly converted?  When we call Jesus Lord, do we desire to submit to Him as Lord and do as He tells us to do from a heart that has been changed and given new motives and desires? Is there a love for the Lord and His Word and His people?  Matthew 7:21-23: 21 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' 23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' RESOURCES MENTIONED: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. FREE Building a Christ-Centered Home Bundle G3 Conference - Use code G3TH for 30% off your registration Bella Paper - use code Thankful10 for 10% off your purchase All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Spotify Sermon on the Mount Playlist   Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Patreon Support Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise        

We must be diligent students of the Word. We cannot be reminded enough that theology matters. Many people fall into following false teachers because they don’t know what God’s Word says. True character will eventually reveal itself. The fruit will eventually show the character of the tree. It will be clear if the fruit is rotten. Matthew 7:15-20: 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Spotify Sermon on the Mount Playlist Patreon Support Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources  SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

As a young believer and a young mother, one of the scriptures that had much impact on me was 2 Timothy 1:5: I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. The Lord used the influence of Timothy's mother and grandmother in bringing him to saving faith. The Lord also used them in instructing Timothy in the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:14-17). Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Lilla Rose Giveaway Enter Here Lilla Rose Special (spend $50 get $17 for your next purchase) 25 Thoughtful Mother's Day Gift Ideas Join Us On Patreon - Next Book Club Read - The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo 

As a mother and grandmother, I appreciate the significance of treasuring every moment spent with family, especially when children are young. Learn to embrace each day as a gift from the Lord, both in the midst of daily chores and life’s beautiful moments Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

Our text today comes in at the beginning of the end of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus knew many would be listening to his sermon and agreeing with it, praising His words, yet they would never enter into the kingdom.  We can’t just hear about the kingdom, agree about what we heard, and go on with our life. There is no neutrality with Jesus - we are either on the broad road to destruction or the narrow road to life.  Matthew 7:13-14: 13 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Hi-Contrast Hymn Books All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Spotify Sermon on the Mount Playlist Patreon Support Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources  SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

Sometimes we can get so busy with the everyday details of life and can forget or miss the opportunity to minister to those the Lord has placed in our paths. The hope in today's episode is to get us to look outside the four walls of our home to see where we can meet the needs of others as we go about our everyday life. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Hi-Contrast Hymn Book  RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo   

We're to be persistent in prayer. We need it just as much as we need oxygen to breathe. It's the lifeline to those of us in the Kingdom - we are still on earth, and as we pray with such persistence continually about all things, it reveals our great dependence on Jesus.  Only through Jesus working in and through us can we stay on the narrow path and walk in righteousness and holiness. So we must continually be asking and keep asking and seek and keep seeking and knock and keep knocking. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Hi-Contrast Hymn Books Bloomfield Cottage - Use code THANKFUL20 for 20% off your purchase All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Patreon Support Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources  SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

Our friendships with one another will only have a solid foundation and be able to flourish if they are built on the solid rock of Christ. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Shop Bloomfield Cottage - use code THANKFUL20 for 20% off your entire purchase. PDF Download for Outline of Threats to Biblical Friendship RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Advertise/Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Cultivating a beautiful home takes a lifetime and is worth every moment we take to pour the love of God into our families and the lives of others. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com EP 79: Homemaking Matters: A Good God Working Out His Purposes in the Midst of Our Ordinary Days RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

How do we judge correctly? What does it mean when Jesus tells us not to judge, and why shouldn't we wrongly judge others? There is much covered in our text today in Matthew 7:1-6 to walk through together. When we see ourselves and our sin rightly, when we are broken by our sin and in a place of humility, we will be in a place to remove the speck from our brother's eye. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog Patreon Support Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources  SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Do you find yourself so busy serving your husband that you don't take the time to delight in him? When he enters the room, do you stop and enjoy his presence, and does he know you are thankful to the Lord for him? Are you more concerned with him meeting your needs than you meeting his?  Listen in as we talk through some practical reminders to not let the busyness of the day rob you of taking the time to truly enjoy this man that captured your heart so many years ago. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Marriage Series on the Podcast & Blog G3 National Conference (Use code G3TH for 30% off your registration) RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Sponsor the Podcast Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

I am sharing various systems, tools, and routines I've appreciated having available to me as a homemaker and how they help me manage my days. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com G3 National Conference (Use code G3TH for 30% off your registration) RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Sponsor the Podcast New! Etsy Shop Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

When our priorities are wrong, our hearts will be anxious. Jesus reminds us in this passage that we don't need to worry about the necessities of life. We have a Heavenly Father who loves and cares for His children. Our worry shows a lack of faith and trust in our good God. The cure to our anxiety is to seek the Lord and not the things of this world.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series on the blog G3 National Conference 2023 - Use Code G3TH for 30% off your registration Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker Newsletter & Free Library of Resources  SOCIAL: Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

When we come to know Jesus as Lord and Savior - we are now to be people of faith - we are people who are told to Fear Not. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Resources Mentioned:  Choosing a Mary Heart in a Martha Season Christmas Podcasts & Posts at Thankful Homemaker RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

When I started writing this podcast, I wanted to title it “How Not to Witness to Family Members.” I believe I have more qualifications in writing about all my failures and missed opportunities to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those I love dearly and desire to see in heaven one day.⁣ Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com The Gospel in a Minute Living Waters Bella Paper Giveaway RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

With the season of Thanksgiving upon us, our minds seem to recognize the blessings the Lord has provided for us, and our hearts seem to be more thankful this time of year. But the reality is, this really should be the attitude we have daily as believers. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Planning a Christ-Focused Thanksgiving Mini-Course RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

When the world and its treasures are your desire, you'll find yourself storing earthly treasures. When Jesus is your treasure, you will be devoted to living for His glory and the good of others.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

Humility is simply thinking rightly of ourselves as we compare ourselves to the Lord. We are going to walk through ten comparisons of when our thinking is prideful versus when we are walking in humility before the Lord. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com 10 Characteristics of Humility RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Fasting is a way to remind us that everything we truly need is found in Christ and Him alone. Jesus fasted, and He expected that His followers would fast too. The purpose of fasting is too long for the fullness and presence of Jesus in our lives. To hunger more for God than the food, He made for us to live on.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. EP 61: Fasting: Hungering After God (Spiritual Disciplines Series) All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

Love looks to the interests of others and puts others above itself. Christ is our perfect example of what unselfish love should look like. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Sermon on the Mount Podcast Series RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

The Lord's prayer is a pattern for prayer that is beneficial for all those in Christ to use. The first three requests have to do with God's glory, and the last three requests are for our good. Our eyes are on God first, and then our eyes are on us. It is the perfect pattern to use in our private and public prayer lives. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Our home cleaning should not take up most of our day and my hope in today's episode is to help you simplify your daily and weekly cleaning. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com My Favorite Cleaning Products & Tools RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Being reminded of all the riches we have in Christ is a sweet reminder to give thanks to the Lord in and through all things. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Open Hearts in a Closed World Conference RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

The sin in our lives begins in our thoughts—or as the bible calls it, "the heart" (Mark 7:20-23). We don't sin without it first starting in our minds. We're walking through Philippians 4:8 together to see how to replace sinful, wrong thinking by instead thinking thoughts that are God-honoring. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Jumpstart Your Mornings Free Mini-Course RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

When we grasp our relationship with God as our Father and rest securely in His care and love, it will change what we do and why we do it.  We will not be looking for the approval of men but only of God, and there is where we receive the greatest reward that isn't lost because it is done out of love for our Father in Heaven, and He has seen it, and He will reward us. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

We are to be imitators of Jesus who is God incarnate and we are to reflect his image to a lost and dying world. One way we do that is by loving our enemies HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Today, we live in a culture all about self and our rights and self-esteem. Jesus desires those of us in Christ not to be self-focused and not to take offense so quickly that we immediately seek retaliation.  Our hope is to have our eyes so focused on Christ and who we are in Christ and our purpose and mission that we don't let insults or criticism bother or thwart our mission.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

I don't know about you, but I don't always take correction well initially. Usually, I come around, but sometimes it takes me much longer than it should. Pride is such an ugly sin, isn't it?? Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com EP 10: Planning Spiritual Priorities for the New Year RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

Jesus calls us to be people of the truth and people who keep their word. We need to be people whose yes is yes and whose no is no.  Matthew 5:33-37:  "Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.' 34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

If someone were to ask your family if you were a patient person, what would their response be? I want to consider myself a patient person, but I'm not sure what my family would say, especially when I'm under stress or when things aren't working out on my timetable. Are we patient with our children when they come to us with questions and requests at the most seemingly inconvenient times? How about difficult people in our lives? Or people who respond impatiently to us?  Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com Spiritual Disciplines Planning Guide RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

I know many of our lives have been affected by divorce, and it is a sensitive subject. There is much hurt and pain in many of your lives still by divorce, so my desire isn't to cause you any more hurt—so please know my heart here before we start to dig in. I always want to be biblical, and the question that we're answering in all these episodes is to be, "What does God's Word say?" Our text today is Matthew 5:31-31: and Jesus continues in it with His - "it was said" statements but "I say to you": 31 "It was also said, 'Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.' 32 But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery. From the beginning—from the creation of Adam and Eve in the garden— God's design was that marriage was to be a permanent covenant.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

As Christians who live in a world that denies absolute truth, we are going to run into controversy. Controversy is an area we need to learn to deal with in a God-honoring way when there are issues inside and outside our churches that need to be addressed.  Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

We live in a culture today that is obsessed with sex and sensuality. From tv ads, magazines at grocery store checkouts, perfume ads, images of women in their undergarments in store windows, to the songs on the radio that glamorize infidelity—how is it possible to live a life of purity in such a society? Our text in today's episode is Matthew 5:27-30: 27 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. Adultery always first begins in the mind. In Matthew 5:28, Jesus has laid out to the Pharisees here and us that sexual purity doesn't just involve the physical act of indulging in sex outside marriage, but he gets to the heart of the matter.  Sexual sin begins in our hearts, and we need to radically do some major surgery to live a life of purity in the world we find ourselves in today. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

One of the ways we adorn the gospel (as it states in Titus 2:10) or make it beautiful is by the care and keeping of our homes. We have been given the responsibility, as Christian women, to the care and management of our homes.  In this episode, the hope in our time together is that we capture the reality of God's hand in every aspect of our lives as workers at home. There is purpose ladies being worked out in our normal day-to-day life. God is always at work behind the scenes. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Are we always mindful as we think of our sinful anger, even though it doesn't lead to physically murdering someone, is committing murder against another person in our heart, and will also be judged by the Lord?  One commentator stated: "We would learn that we actually do worse things than these if we could only see our hearts as God is able to see them."  We are all murderers. Have you ever lost your temper, harbored a grudge against someone, gossiped, neglected their needs, spoke unkindly about them or to them, or have you been jealous?  We can destroy others in our thoughts and with our words, and as those who profess to be known and loved by Jesus, this should not be.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

Jesus did not come to do away with the Law—He came to fulfill it. As we continue on in our series on the Sermon on the Mount we will see how Christ fulfills the scriptures and what place the law has in our lives as His followers Our text today is Matthew 5:17-20: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones Why Do Dead People Sin? - Sermon by Doug Ferrell SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Do you, as a Christian, plan your days, so you're using your time wisely (Ephesians 5:15-16)? We don't just want to live to get things done or get the most things done; we want to get done what we should be focusing on or prioritizing.  Come listen in as we walk through Ephesians 5:15-16 together: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

Psalm 1 stands as an introduction to the rest of the Psalms. It describes two different paths that we frequently see in the Psalms; the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. We're going to walk through this Psalm together in today's episode.  PDF Study Guide Full Show Notes: ThankfulHomemaker.com SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

"If God’s favor to us were based on our performance—we’re in trouble because even our best days are flawed with sin. We don’t always have pure motives and really in some way we are always looking out for ourselves.” The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges EP 69: Preaching the Gospel to Yourself Full Show Notes: God's Blessing Does Not Depend On Our Performance SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

When Christians begin living like Christians, it affects the world around them. We are light to a dark world. Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12), and He is a great light that has come to those dwelling in darkness (Matthew 4:16). Because of Christ's work in those of us who are in Christ, we are now light, and we're to live as children of light. We are to have nothing to do with darkness because we've been delivered from its domain (Colossians 1:12-13). We who were once not just in darkness, but we were darkness, now have the glorious privilege to be light in the Lord.  Our text today is Matthew 5:14-16: You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

My hope today is to encourage some of you homemakers who feel overwhelmed when it comes to the care of your home. I'm still a learner even after 35 years and I hope you will always consider yourselves learners. What I'm sharing with you are tasks and routines that have worked well for me over the years so don't feel you need to put in place each one but maybe you can gain a tip or two today for your home. Full Show Notes: 10 Simple Tips for Beginning Homemakers SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

In this next episode of the Sermon on the Mount, we start with two common pictures we're all familiar with from everyday life. No matter your location in the world—you know what salt and light are. We are to be salt, and we are to be light or better to state as the scripture states - we ARE salt, and we ARE light.  We're going to take these one at a time, so today, we're just working through Matthew 5:13: "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

Self-pity is a selfish tendency that takes our eyes off Christ and puts them on ourselves. We forget “God works all things together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Are we able to give God “thanks in all things”? Faith on Trial: Psalm 73 by Martyn Lloyd Jones  The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace Full Show Notes: Practical Tips to Overcome Self-Pity Favorite Book Recommendations SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

As we hunger and thirst for righteousness, it will lead us to be persecuted for righteousness' sake. A true Christian will suffer persecution in one form or another. Today we are on the eighth beatitude in Matthew 5:10-12: 10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

We all know the books we read shape us and grow us. Besides benefits like increasing our vocabulary and sharpening our brains, books also teach us, challenge us and bring us comfort. Many benefits are waiting for you as you take the time to pick up a good book.  We all have an ever-growing list of books we'd like to read each year. I'm sharing a few tips that have helped me choose what to read and make more time to fit it into a busy schedule.  Full Show Notes: Simple Tips to Read More Books Favorite Book Recommendations SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

To be a peacemaker we need to be at peace with God. It starts here. We must no longer be God's enemy. God is the supreme peacemaker and now as his children, we should resemble our Father and be peacemakers Today we are on the seventh beatitude in Matthew 5:9: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

There is a book that has been a comfort to me in my walk with the Lord as I parent a prodigal by Ruth Bell Graham called Prodigals and Those Who Love Them: Words of Encouragement For Those Who Wait. Waiting on a prodigal is hard, and this isn't a how-to book but a book of prayers and promises and meditations in the Word for troubled hearts. Her reminder is one I bring to mind often, “We mothers must take care of the possible and trust God for the impossible. Full Show Notes: Trusting God with the Impossible as Mothers Favorite Book Recommendations SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

When our hearts are being ruled by the Spirit we will only desire the very best for someone. Jesus is our perfect example of how love acts (Eph. 5:2). Full Show Notes at Thankful Homemaker SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

The gift of physical sight is wonderful. Yet we are talking today about a seeing that surpasses that of even someone being blind and seeing for the first time. We are going to see God. Today we are on the sixth beatitude in Matthew 5:8: Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

I love reading Paul's prison prayers (Ephesians 1:15-23, 3:14-21; Philippians 1:9-11, Colossians 1:9-12) because we see the heart of what the apostle desired for us. Amid this trial, Paul didn't pray the believers in Ephesus or Philippi would live their best life now. He didn't pray for material blessings, but his focus was on the spiritual and the unlimited and glorious blessings we have from being in Christ. Wisdom in God's ways is something we should all desire to seek as believers and to pray for others that are in Christ. We should desire to understand what it looks like to live as those who have been changed by the Gospel. 4 Truths to Pray for One Another Blog Post  Praying with Paul by D.A. Carson Favorite Book Recommendations SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

Do you ever find yourself flitting from task to task and at the end of the day realizing you didn't finish any of them? Do you have trouble staying focused and on task? A tool that has helped me immensely over the years to stay on tasks, whether it's household chores, reading, social media, blog work, paying bills, and a host of other items, is just a simple household timer Full Show Notes at Thankful Homemaker My Favorite Timer SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

I'm sharing some of the simple tools that have helped me manage my time over my 34 years of being a wife, mother, and homemaker.  Full Show Notes at Thankful Homemaker Free Daily Docket PDF Free Menu Planning PDF SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

We're getting ready to turn the calendar and on most of our lists or resolutions is to start a daily Bible reading habit. This is a good thing. What better discipline to develop as a believer than to desire to sit at the feet of Jesus daily and hear from Him through His Word and for us to speak to Him through prayer Full Show Notes at Thankful Homemaker Free PDF - Daily Time with the Lord SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

As I've been reading in Isaiah, it has struck me how often God is not the first place I turn to when I need help. I may look to myself, my husband, or a friend, and although those aren't necessarily bad things it isn't where I should be turning to first. Isaiah 9:6: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Blog Post - The Greatest Gift SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

One of the aspects of the life of Christ that stands out to me is that Jesus never seemed to be in a hurry. Even when crowds of people surrounded him he always made time for what was most important—time with His Father. Luke 5:15-16: 15 But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. 16 But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray. Sitting with Jesus in a Season of Busyness Crazy Busy: A (Mercifully) Short Book About a (Really) Big Problem by Kevin DeYoung SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

Those who know they have received mercy, show mercy. And the merciful are greatly blessed, because they will receive mercy from God himself. And as the verse, Matthew 5:7 states: Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

SHOW NOTES: Thankful Homemaker  EP 9 Christ-Focused Christmas Celebration Ideas 10 Questions to Ask at Your Christmas Gathering by Donald Whitney Favorite Site for Evangelist Christmas Books to Giveaway- my top giveaway book choice   Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

We all know what it feels like at times to be hungry or thirsty, but there are a hunger and thirst that should be far more concerning to us that we are going to dig into together today, and it’s not talking about physical hunger but spiritual hunger. It’s a hunger that will not be satisfied by food or water but only by God. Augustine said: "Thou has made us for thyself, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee." The good news is Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:6 that our hunger and thirst can be satisfied: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

Meekness is often defined as power under control, and in the case of the Spirit-filled believer, he or she is under the control of God's Spirit. Meekness towards God is a disposition of spirit that accepts His dealings as good and doesn't dispute or resist them. Listen in as we continue on in our series through the Sermon on the Mount - working through Matthew 5:5: Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

True spiritual mourning produces a hatred for our sin and a repentant heart that desires to be in a right relationship with the Lord. We should desire to be holy as God is holy. Mourning is to be our lifestyle. It’s not just a one time moment when we first came to a recognition of our utter spiritual poverty before the Lord - it is a continual part of our lives as believers We want to cultivate hearts that are sensitive to the sin our lives and mourn over them. We want our mourning to be genuine not just an emotional reaction or because we got caught but that there is true confession and repentance and genuine mourning As we continue on in this current series, our text today is Matthew 5:4: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. All episodes in the Sermon on the Mount Series at the blog Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

The Sermon on the Mount lays out for us what it means to be a citizen of Christ's kingdom. The chapters we're working through in Matthew 5-7 layout for us what the Lord desires of those who profess Christ. It describes what our inward and outward desires and actions should look like of those who profess to be in Christ. As we continue on in this current series, our text today is Matthew 5:3: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise    

John Stott opened his book The Message of the Sermon on the Mount: Christian Counter-Culture with this sentence: "The Sermon on the Mount is probably the best-known part of the teaching of Jesus, though arguable it is the least understood, and certainly it is the least obeyed." In our time today, we're going to work through Matthew 5:1-2 and discuss an overview of the Sermon as we begin a series on the Sermon on the Mount HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd Jones SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise  

The Weekly Home Blessing is a simple one hour routine that blesses your home and family for the week. It's a habit I modified from Flylady that has been part of my homemaking routine for almost 20 years. Come walk through how it might bless your home and family too.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Weekly Cleaning Schedule Free PDF Download SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Thankful Homemaker Merchandise

As Christian women, there is a desire within us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. We want to grow in holiness. We desire to become more like Christ. We desire to be more and more separated from sin. We'd love to see the fruit of the Spirit evident in our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. My hope is in our time together today to direct us towards a biblical view of the way God works, and we work in our sanctification.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. When Grace Comes Home: How the Doctrines of Grace Change Your Life by Terry L. Johnson How Does Sanctification Work? by David Powlison The BAR Podcast Network SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

This summer, we decided to create a camp experience for our grandkids in our backyard. This camp is referred to by Cousin Camp because usually, you're intermingling cousins together. However, our daughter has our only grandchildren, so technically ours wasn't a "cousin camp," but it was still a fun way to create sweet memories with our grandchildren. My husband, Doug Ferrell is a guest on today's episode, so come join us as we share all about our (as we called it) Camp Nana Papa week with our grandkids.  HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes. Cousin Camp: A Grandparent's Guide to Creating Fun, Faith, and Memories that Last by Susan Alexander Yates The Gospel Story Bible by Marty Machowski Cousin Camp Pinterest Board Trello Personalized Camp T-Shirts SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

So many times as wives, we can focus more on what our husbands are doing wrong instead of focusing our hearts on what they are doing right.   HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.    SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.  Logos Bible Software Training Webinar Keep a Quiet Heart by Elisabeth Elliot SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.  Learning from Elisabeth Elliot: A List of Resources Keep a Quiet Heart by Elisabeth Elliot SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.  Who Am I?: Identity in Christ by Jerry Bridges Spiritual Disciplines Series 20 Ways to Find Time with the Lord When Your Days are Crazy Busy - Free PDF SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.  The Gospel Condensed - Sermon by Doug Ferrell The Bible Recap Learning to Read, Understand, and Love the Bible with Tara-Leigh Cobble @Alisa Childers Podcast    SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

HELPFUL LINKS: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes.  Menu Planning Made Easy Online Course Free Weekly Menu Planning PDF    SOCIAL: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

EP 31: The Supremacy of God   Ligonier Connect Contentment Study   Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group   The BAR Network   Just Thinking Podcast   The BAR Podcast   Covenant Eyes More Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

To Seek and Save: Daily Reflections on the Road to the Cross by Sinclair Ferguson Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Ligonier Connect Contentment Thankful Homemaker Group Study Ligonier Connect Free Group Study Info Podcast EP 71: Prepare and Not Panic Meal Planning Made Easy More Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Thankful Homemaker Instagram Preparation is Not Panic and Confusion is Not Chaos @Tim Challies Ligonier Teaching Series Free to Stream Ken Ham Facebook Live Videos Andrew Peterson Wingfeather Series Book One Read Aloud G3 Conference App 10 Ways in Which this Coronavirus Pandemic Can Be for Our Good  @Biblical Spirituality Press How Do We Make Sense of the Coronavirus? - @Ask Pastor John More Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

  Abortion Resources Mentioned in the Episode: My Abortion Testimony at the Blog Haven Today Radio Program Article on Haven Today Facebook Live Video from Grace Community Church (my testimony comes in at approximately 32 minutes into the service) More Helpful Links: Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

Preaching the gospel to yourself. It’s a phrase we’ve all heard and we all agree with but deep down we’re like, okay what does that really look like? Or how do I make that practical in my day-to-day life when my marriage is hard? Or the kids are out of control? Or there’s an illness in my family or I’m just stuck in a sinful pattern?  Or the house is in chaos and I don’t know where to begin?  The reality is we’re always saying something to ourselves in our minds. Especially in those moments of chaos or difficulty. Is what we're speaking to ourselves centered on the truths of God’s Word or are we buying into the lies of the world?  "Have you realized that most of the unhappiness in life is due to the fact that you are listening to yourself instead of talking to yourself?" ~ Martyn Lloyd Jones We need to be talking to ourselves and not just listening to ourselves. But what do we need to be talking to ourselves about? This is what we're going to work through together in today's podcast. Related Posts: How to Preach the Gospel to Yourself God's Blessing Does Not Depend on Our Performance What is the Gospel? Resources Mentioned: G3 Conference Just Thinking Podcast The Gospel Condensed - My Husband's sermon on Romans 8:1 Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

It's the start of a New Year, and many of us have goals and resolutions on our minds, and those are good things. One that has been on my list is to re-evaluate my morning routine We know routines and habits are super helpful when we stick with them. Our days run smoother, and we go about them pretty effortlessly in time. They just happen, and our brains don't have to think so hard about them anymore. Brushing our teeth is a good example. You don't think about it—you just do it. Menu Planning Made Easy Online Course Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

With the holiday season before us, many of us may find ourselves around people who can be a challenge to communicate without it turning into a heated discussion. We may be the ones challenging to communicate with. As I pondered the topic of speech seasoned with grace and truth, one area that came to my mind is when I've messed up, and someone overlooked it and offered me grace. They didn't feel the need to correct me or even bring it up at a later time. Have you ever had a person like that in your life? Or are you that person in someone else's life? The reality is, we know when we've messed up. When our speech is seasoned with grace and kindness it will overlook mistakes in the lives of others and encourage instead of discouraging. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

My heart doesn't tend to go towards giving thanks during the difficult circumstances in my life. Honestly, my heart doesn't automatically go to giving thanks even in the good times of my life. I’m reminded in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that giving thanks in all things is God's will for us Ingratitude is a sin that fails to acknowledge God as the giver of all things. Gratitude is an attitude that honors God. It acknowledges that He is the giver of all things. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 it states: Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. We're given three exhortations in those verses: Rejoice, pray, and be thankful. Why? Because this is God's will. Joyful, prayerful, and thankful Christians make the gospel attractive to a watching world. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App     

Have you ever been kind to someone outwardly, all the while you were harboring bitterness or anger towards them on the inside? What about thinking the best of others? I fight a critical spirit, and it's an area I continually pray for the Lord to work in my heart to not judge the motives of others. God's work of sanctification comes about by continuing to change us more into the image of Christ. Our motives need to be brought into obedience to God's Word if we desire to see real change in our lives.   As we take this time to spend in the Sermon on the Mount and in 1 Corinthians 13 my hope is it will get us pondering and asking the Lord to search our hearts and more specifically our heart motives on why we do what we do and how we judge the motives of others Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

How do we determine what is the best use of our time? We know amid the mundaneness of our days, the work the Lord has given us in our homes matters for eternity. God has a purpose in all things. There is no secular work in Christ; all is sacred. As homemakers, we desire to be productive and accomplish much in the time we’re given. It feels good when we check those tasks off our to-do lists and then the reality hits that most of them are back on it again tomorrow. It’s hard sometimes to determine how to prioritize our days and feel like we are getting things done. How do we determine what to do next? I’ve quoted Elisabeth Elliot’s words to you often of “Do the Next Thing,” but what is the next best thing to do? How do we determine we are using our time wisely? Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

What does it look like to live a fruitful life in the empty nest years?  What do I do now? What does my day to day life look like? Am I needed anymore? These are questions that raced through my mind as the empty nest season approached and was quickly upon me. I don't have all the answers, but I desire to share some thoughts with you on lessons the Lord has taught me and what He continues to teach me in this season that I've grown to cherish much more than I initially thought I would. Do you desire to flourish in your empty nest years? What about my younger readers? Please don't pass this one up because it will hopefully give you something to think about and to encourage you as you interact with the older women in your life. Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Most of us have been impacted by the writings of Charles Spurgeon, whether it’s through books, his sermons or even the many quotes we come across as we scroll through our social media feeds. Susannah Spurgeon is probably not as familiar to us except for the knowledge that we know she was married to Charles. My first introduction to Susannah’s writings was in a favored devotional of mine called Seasons of the Heart. Susannah’s writings are appealing as Ray Rhodes Jr. explained so beautifully: “for she brings her readers into her thoughts of her heart, as if she has poured a cup of tea for her guests, invited them to draw near to the fire, and engaged them in conversation. She respected her readers, treating them as friends.” Reading Susie: The Life and Legacy of Susannah Spurgeon, wife of Charles H. Spurgeon, has made me feel as if I just got to spend time with a dear friend and I didn’t want our time to come to an end. It is a well written, complete biography filled with historical records, personal writings from the Spurgeon’s and wonderful testimonies from family and friends. Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

Fasting is a way to show the Lord we enjoy Him more than His gifts. It turns our focus on Jesus because we know He is the only one who can satisfy our spiritual hunger. We desire to be filled with the Lord. You can find all podcasts on the Spiritual Disciplines in this series here. The two books I'm utilizing the most for the series are Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Habits of Grace.  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

We are called in Ephesians 4:29 to respond with words that give grace, encourage, and build up. This includes those hard moments when our kids are sinfully disobedient. If my motives to correct are focused on my pride or being inconvenienced, then it's not going to come out in a way that is going to be in the spirit of Ephesians 4:29. Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

What is evangelism? The dictionary definition defines it as the spreading of the Christian gospel by public preaching or personal witness. So evangelism is the announcement, proclamation, and preaching of the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-4), which is the good news of and about Jesus Christ. It is a verbal message. As Christians, we are all called to be God’s mouthpieces. Along with being salt and light to a lost world, we are called to open our mouths and share the good news—the best news we could ever share.  Donald Whitney defines evangelism: "It is clearly presenting Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit to sinful people with the hope that they may see their sinfulness against a holy God and repent and put their faith and trust in Christ alone for salvation." You can find all podcasts on the Spiritual Disciplines in this series here. The two books I'm utilizing the most for the series are Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Habits of Grace.  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App 

As I am now over half a century old, I wanted to share some of the thoughts that go through my mind as I look back over the years of my marriage and raising our family.  There are so many good memories and things I wouldn't change, but there are many things I wish I would have grasped at a younger age.   If I could go back here are some of the most important things I would like to tell my younger self: Visit ThankfulHomemaker.com for the full show notes.  Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

  Spiritual journaling is a way to slow our lives down and ponder deeply over the events of the day. In my life journaling has helped me to grow spiritually by discerning my thoughts and motives. It has shown me areas where I need to give thanks and praise to the Lord. My journaling time has reminded me of situations or people I need to be in prayer for. Journaling is an excellent time for me to see areas of weakness and set spiritual goals and not always just spiritual but other areas of my life that need some help too. Maybe I need to be better disciplined in my internet habits, or my homekeeping or some of my relationships may need time and attention. This is a good time to evaluate all areas of my life. God’s Word doesn’t specifically talk about journaling it is a spiritual discipline that many saints over the years have benefitted from and I think of how we have profited by the journals of the saints of the past. I think of the journals like the diary of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards, or George Mueller’s autobiography or Jim Elliot’s journal put together by Elisabeth Elliot. These are treasures we have of how the Lord worked in and through their lives.  You can find all podcasts on the Spiritual Disciplines in this series here. The two books I'm utilizing the most for the series are Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Habits of Grace.  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

Prayer is simply talking to God. As believers, we have access to God the Father through our relationship with Jesus Christ. Prayer reminds us we are dependent on God for every aspect of our lives and we grow in that relationship by communing with Him in prayer. Donald Whitney reminds us in regards to the spiritual disciplines that prayer is second only to Bible intake in the order of importance. Prayer is not demanding but we are coming before the Lord with open hands to what He knows is best for us.  You can find all podcasts on the Spiritual Disciplines in this series here. The two books I'm utilizing the most for the series are Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Habits of Grace.  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

We're continuing in a series on the Spiritual Disciplines and today's episode is on Bible Study. We're going to talk about the benefits, explain some basic Bible study methods, share some resources to help you get started digging into the Word. Jerry Bridges says in regard to God’s Word - "Reading gives us breadth, but study gives us depth." *I stated in the podcast the next episode in the Spiritual Disciplines series will be on prayer, and it will be up on Tuesday, April 23rd instead of April 22nd.  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

We all want to grow in our walk as Christians. We've talked about how often we read God’s Word close the book and forget what we’ve read. We can blame our memories or our intelligence or our age, but the reality is it has more to do with our method than our abilities. Today's podcast episode is going to address areas that are important to our growth as believers: Meditation on God's Word and Scripture Memory.  God desires us all to grow in the grace and knowledge of His Word, so we are all capable and equipped as believers by the work of Spirit of God in us. We talked in our last episode on bible reading that we need to read the Word and hear the Word preached but just doing those two things doesn't always guarantee we will remember or be able to apply what we read. So then we briefly touched on meditating on the Word because this is where growth starts to come about. Donald Whitney described it as: “While hearing and reading plant the seed of Scripture into the soil of our souls, other disciplines are the water and sun God uses to bring the growth and fruit of Christlikeness in our lives.” When we talk about meditation, please don’t get the image of a yoga class or some other kind of New Age practice. What the world describes as meditation is not what Christian meditation is. Again we are not emptying our minds, but in Christian meditation, we are filling our mind with God and His truth.  Donald Whitney gives us a good definition: "Let’s define meditation as deep thinking on the truths and spiritual realities revealed in Scripture, or upon life from a scriptural perspective, for the purposes of understanding, application, and prayer."  Head to ThankfulHomemaker.com for Full Show Notes Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App     

We are continuing in a series here at the podcast on the Spiritual Disciplines. On today's episode, we are going to discuss the importance of reading God's Word along with some practical helps to implement it into our days. We have a God that we can know and meet with and because of that, we should meet with God on a regular daily basis. My hope is by the end of the podcast today that we would all see and understand why we need to do this as those who are born again - first off if we’re in Christ God is our Father, and we are His children. I want to spend time with my Heavenly Father. I desire to know Him more because as I do that I get a clearer understanding of who I am in light of Him and it changes my perspective of the world as I begin to see all of life and the world through His perspective. This only comes about as I spend time with Him in worship, in fellowship and in the reading of His Word—which is the topic today.  I can only come before God because of Jesus—He is the mediator between God and sinful man. If we’re in Christ, we have access to the Father, and we can meet with Him and know Him because of Jesus.  Hebrews 4:16 tells us  - Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  John 17:17 tells sanctify them in truth - your word is truth. Jesus is praying for our sanctification the process of being made more and more into Christlikeness. It’s to be like Jesus. He is asking the Father to do this by the truth. What is truth? God’s Word is truth. We are sanctified by truth - God’s Word is truth, so we are sanctified by the Word of God. I could just stop here because that’s a pretty good reason enough for us to be in the Word on a regular daily basis.  If you haven't listened to the first one in this series you can do that here - EP 52 Introduction to the Spiritual Disciplines Show Notes: Philippians 4:8 Questions to Help You Meditate on the Word: -What is true about this, or what truth does it exemplify? -What is honorable about this? -What is just or right about this? -What is pure about this, or how does it exemplify purity? -What is lovely about this? -What is commendable about this? -What is excellent about this (that excels others of this kind)? -What is praiseworthy about this? ~ Above Questions taken from Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life Hebrews 4:16 John 17:17 2 Peter 1:20-21 2 Timothy 3:16 Galatians 1:12 2 Peter 3:15-16 Matthew 4:4 Nehemiah 8:1-4 1 Timothy 4:13 Luke 11:28 1 Timothy 4:7 Matthew 19:4 Mark 12:10 Philippians 4:8 Seeking Whatever is Good(Review of All That's Good by Hannah Anderson) EP 52: Introduction to the Spiritual Disciplines Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines by David Mathis Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Minds by Jen Wilkin What is a Healthy Church Member? by Thabiti M. Anyabwile Listen Up! A Practical Guide to Listening to Sermons by Christopher Ash The Daily Bible (NIV) Chronological by F. LaGard Smith ESV Daily Reading Bible by Crossway Reading Plan App  Infographic: You Have More Time for Bible Reading than You Think Develop a Daily Bible Reading Habit - Find Bible Reading plan options in this post Robert Murray M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan Elisabeth Elliot on Hints for a Quiet Time Podcast EP 15: Prioritizing God's Word When Life is Busy Women's Hope Podcast YouVersion Bible App Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App     

We're starting a new series here at the podcast on the spiritual disciplines. Today's episode is introducing us to what they are and the vital role they play in our sanctification as believers. In this series, we’re going to talk about why we need to practice them and share practical biblical ways how we as followers of Jesus Christ can pursue Christlikeness through these means of grace.  The means of grace or spiritual disciplines (Bible intake, prayer, and fellowship the three main areas and we’ll work through each of them more each episode) are ways the Holy Spirit conforms us more and more into the image of Christ.  I have two primary resources in addition to scripture that I'm utilizing in this series, and they are Donald Whitney's book called, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines by David Mathis. I encourage you if you want to dig a bit deeper to grab a copy of both or one of these as we work through them together.  Spiritual Disciplines we hope to cover in this series: Bible reading, Bible Study, Meditation, Prayer, Fasting, Evangelism, Journaling, Fellowship and Service.  Show Notes: Romans 8:28 1 John 3:2 1 Peter 1:16 1 Timothy 4:7-8 John 14:6 Acts 2:42 Romans 8:29 Philippians 1:6 Philippians 3:8 John 17:3 Colossians 1:9-11 Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines by David Mathis Simplify Your Spiritual Life: Spiritual Disciplines for the Overwhelmed by Donald Whitney The Disciplines of the Christian Life by Eric Liddell Holy Helps for a Godly Life by Richard Rogers Podcast EP 6: What Does Self-Discipline Look Like in Our Homes @Thankful Homemaker The Center for Biblical Spirituality- Donald Whitney's Website (tons of helpful resources to dig into) What are the Spiritual Disciplines @Desiring God What are the Spiritual Disciplines @Got Questions Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

How many times do we give thanks to the Lord for the ministry He has given us at home. Are we thankful for the mundane everyday moments or are we are only thankful when we think we are doing “great” things for the Lord? We live in God's home. He owns it. He has gifted it to us and given us the job of stewardship over it. He's put us in charge, and we are responsible to Him. As believers, it should make us work harder, and we shouldn't desire to escape from work or difficult situations because we know they are all with a purpose and we also know we are equipped to meet these situations in Christ. Mundane tasks are what make up most of our days. Everything matters —all of life is sacred. Once we’re in Christ there is no separation of secular or sacred. Every moment is a holy moment that God has ordained. Do we think biblically about our time and what we see as these seemingly mundane tasks? We don’t see many photos on social media of people folding laundry or washing dishes—there’s no special medals or awards for these tasks. This is where we need to continually ask the Lord to gives us a mindset of remembering that the mundane matters. It's in these moments that He is growing us in holiness.  Show Notes: Marriage Series at Thankful Homemaker G3 Conference Cultivating a Heart for Missions in Your Family Titus 2:3-5 Colossians 3:23 Colossians 3:17 1 Corinthians 10:31 Romans 12:1-2 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Susie: The Life and Legacy of Susannah Spurgeon, Wife of Charles H. Spurgeon by Ray Rhodes Jr.  Glimpses of Grace: Treasuring the Gospel in Your Home by Gloria Furman Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands by Paul Tripp  Feminine Appeal: Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother by Carolyn Mahaney Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

I'm re-sharing a previous episode I need to re-listen to this time of year. I'm praying it will be an encouragement to you today. We are already nearing Christmas Eve and plans that I had to bake or buy or clean haven’t all been finished.  There are gifts I wanted to purchase or send that didn’t happen.  There are cookies I wanted to bake that I didn’t get too and areas I wanted to tidy at home that I didn’t even get close to doing. But I want to share with you today reminders that I’m talking to myself about what I am choosing. I’m hoping to help us keep our focus on the main thing this Christmas season. You can read the full podcast here, but my hope is you will sit with me for just a few minutes of your day and listen in to the podcast and let me pour into you a bit. Christmas Posts: Podcast EP 50: Lessons from the Life of Mary Christ-Focused Gift Guide for the Whole Family Christmas Love, 1 Corinthians Style Podcast EP 9: Christ-Focused Christmas Celebration Ideas Thoughts to Ponder as You Celebrate Christmas Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

Every Christmas season I look forward to reading the account of the birth of Christ in Luke together as a family on Christmas morning. I'm amazed at Mary's faith.  What must have gone through her mind when Gabriel approached her?  How did she process the news that she and Joseph were to raise the Son of God?  What depths of sorrow did she endure while watching her Son die a horrific death on a cross?  There are many lessons we can learn from Mary’s life, but I want to share just ten today. Show Notes: 1.  Mary knew God's Word. (Luke 1:54-55) 2.  Mary was filled with the Spirit. (Luke 1:35) 3. Mary said "yes" to God's plan for her life. (Luke 1:38) 4.  Mary was quiet before the Lord and meditated on all He had done in her life. (Luke 2:19, Luke 2:51) 5.  Mary turned to Jesus for help when she had a problem to be solved. (John 2:3-5) 6.  Mary was a woman of worship.(Luke 1:46-47) 7.  Mary trusted in the Lord and waited on the His timing. (Matthew 1:19-20) 8.  Mary was a chosen vessel of the Lord. (Luke 1:30-31) 9.  Mary was a faithful servant. (John 19:25) 10. Mary knew Jesus was dying on the cross for her sins. (Luke 2:34-35) Scripture & Resources: Luke 2:19 Matthew 7:21 Romans 8:9-10 John MacArthur Study Bible Mary of Nazareth@Revive Our Hearts Twelve Extraordinary Women by John MacArthur My Soul Magnifies the Lord: Meditations on the Meaning of Christmas by Martyn Lloyd-Jones Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Related Posts: 10 Lessons from the Life of Mary Christmas Love, 1 Corinthians 13 Style Podcast EP 9: Christ-Focused Christmas Celebration Ideas Our Simple Family Christmas Traditions Thoughts to Ponder as You Celebrate Christmas How to Avoid the Comparison Trap this Christmas Season Podcast EP 11: Serving with a Mary Heart in a Martha Season Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

Many times in my walk as a believer I have heard and read the term "abide in Christ" and didn't have a full understanding of what that meant. I know abide means to remain in, and I pictured it as a state of resting in Christ. Studying through John 15 has been a help to me in grasping fully what our Lord meant as he walked and talked with His disciples on the way to the Garden of Gethsemane. Picture this; our Lord had just left the Upper Room in John 13 & 14 where He and the disciples shared a Passover meal together. During their time together in the Upper Room Jesus washed the disciple's feet and He dismissed Judas who would betray him (John 13). Now in John 15, they are headed in the darkness of the night to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus's timing in giving this teaching to his disciples was needed as they were going to face hard times ahead and this lesson is relevant to us today as we meet difficult days. So let's learn together what it looks like to abide in Christ, be a real disciple and bear fruit for our Lord. I'm working through  John 15:1-11 today.    Scripture & Resources: John 13 John 14 John 15:1-11 Galatians 5:22-23 Isaiah 53:3 1 Peter 1:8 Abiding in Christ: Becoming Like Christ through an Abiding Relationship with Him by Paul Chappell John 15 Study Doorposts Blog What Does it Mean to Abide in Christ? Christmas Posts: Christ-Focused Gift Guide for the Whole Family Christmas Love, 1 Corinthians Style Podcast EP 9: Christ-Focused Christmas Celebration Ideas Thoughts to Ponder as You Celebrate Christmas Podcast EP 11: Serving with a Mary Heart in a Martha Season Find the full show notes at the blog here - ThankfulHomemaker.com Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App   

It’s not the gingerbread houses or cookies or special meals that will have the most impact on your family. It is the attitude of your heart. It is them seeing the Gospel lived out in your day to day life – even in the midst of busy seasons. As the busy Christmas season is upon us we can find ourselves all wrapped up (literally wrapping too) in planning, cooking, cleaning, shopping, decorating, ministry activities and a multitude of other tasks that seem to come about during the Christmas season in addition to just the normal activities of life that we are dealing with. I can lose focus and need to continue to pray to the Lord to remind me to have the heart of Mary and not get caught up with the attitude of Martha in all that needs to be done. I’m a very task focused person, and it’s how my mind works so I need to be intentional and prayerful to not miss the wonder of the Christmas season. The Christmas season can be a time – a reminder to us to refocus - to again to think deeply about the realities of who Jesus is and what He has done for us. Scripture & Resources: Luke 1:28-29 Luke 2:19 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Philippians 2:14 Matthew 1 Luke 2 Isaiah 7 Isaiah 9 Micah 5 Matthew 25:40 Come Let Us Adore Him by Paul Tripp Good News of Great Joy at Desiring God Ever Thine Home 10 Questions to Ask at a Christmas Gathering Jesus Unmasked by Todd Friel Wretched.org Answers in Genesis Christmas Cards 14 Simple Outreach Ideas with an Eternal Focus Remember When Tractat Living Waters Treasuring God in Our Traditions by Noel Piper ESV Giveaway Bibles   Related Resources: Celebrating Advent: Looking Back and Looking Forward 10 Simple & Practical Hostess Gifts Christ-Focused Gift Guide for the Whole Family Christ-Focused Christmas Gift Guide 2017 Podcast Ep 11: Serving with a Mary Heart in a Martha Season 14 Simple Outreach Ideas with an Eternal Focus Find the Show Notes for this episode at ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

We live in a world where it can be quick to pass judgments instead of seeing the best in others. We can find ourselves expressing our opinions harshly when we differ from one another. Watching debates between Christians online when there is a disagreement makes me cringe a bit when I see the responses towards one another not gentle and kind. Disagreement is inevitable, but there is a way as believers that God’s Word lays out for us what that should look like. There is the reality of being hurt by the words of others and instead of taking the way of meekness, we take the route of defending our rights. Bringing it closer to home, how are your responses to those you are closest? What does a gentle spirit look like in the context of your marriage or with your children? Scriptures & References: 1 Peter 3:4 Matthew 5:5 Romans 8:28 Isaiah 41:17 Matthew 21:5 Matthew 11:29 Ephesians 4:29 Philippians 4:5 1 Peter 3:15 James 1:5 James 3:17 Cultivating a Gentle Spirit @Thankful Homemaker What Does it Mean to Be Poor in Spirit? @Got Questions Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by D. Martin Lloyd Jones For the complete Show Notes head to ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker

How can we as believers "put on" an attitude of love in our homes? What does it look like to "put off" sinful responses and attitudes and "put on" God-honoring attitudes? I'm hoping today to encourage you that as believers we can "put on" attitudes and behaviors that are God-honoring. If we are in Christ, He has equipped us to do so through His presence within us and through our intake of God's truth. We're working through Ephesians 4:22-24 together today: 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. We have a new nature when we receive Christ and are born again – we become a totally different individual – we’re now a citizen of heaven Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation the old has gone the new has come. ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17 The apostle Paul reminds us throughout his epistles that we have a new nature. It affects our mind, heart, knowledge, wisdom, love, desires and every aspect of our being. According to God’s Word, we are new – transformed. As believers, we now have a new nature. Our behavior is now able to match our new nature because Christ is in us. We are risen with Christ, and we should now behave in accordance with who we are.   Scripture & Resources: Ephesians 4:22-24 Acts 7:58 Romans 3:12 1 Peter 2:1 Acts 12:21 Colossians 3:9-11 Philippians 2:12 2 Corinthians 5:17 Ephesians 4:1 Philippians 4:8 Galatians 5:22-23 Ephesians 5:2 1 Timothy 4:7-8 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 1 John 5:3 Martha Peace's "Put On, Put Off" Study The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace Putting on an Attitude of Love in Your Home Podcast Ep. 15: Prioritizing God's Word When Life is Busy For the full Show Notes visit ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker      

On this podcast episode of Thankful Homemaker, we're talking about how our tongues can get us into so much trouble. We tend to have many words. Many times we're not careful with our words and say things that are slanderous, or gossip or sadly at times even malicious. This should not be for women who love the Lord and are loved and known by Him. Let's encourage each other today to speak words that glorify and honor the Lord. Scripture References & Other Resources Mentioned: Colossians 4:6 Proverbs 141:3 James 3:2 James 3:8 James 3:9-10 Ephesians 4:31 Matthew 18:15 Galatians 6:1 Ephesians 4:32 Proverbs 10:19 Proverbs 31:26 Ephesians 4:29 Matthew 12:34 Colossians 3:15-17 James Online Bible Study by Jen Wilkin For the full Show Notes visit ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker  

I know as women we can get caught in our to-do lists and forget to give thanks in and through all things – even in the gift of preparing to serve others with the hope of pointing them to the One who we truly have all things to be thankful for! give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:18 My hope today is to simplify your holiday planning a bit.  So you’re getting this two weeks before Thanksgiving with the hopes it will be a help with maybe getting a bit more organized than you have in past years and also starting to think about how you can focus your day on the Lord. I want you to be able to keep your family's and your focus on Christ and not get caught up in all the things on your seemingly long to do list. Thanksgiving should be a time of feasting on the abundant grace of God.  I'm sharing below my simple planning for one of my favorite family traditions to celebrate together along with some bits of help at the end to keep the focus of the meal on Christ and Who we are truly giving thanks to. My hope always is to spark ideas in ways you can make much of Christ during your time together. “Take a little time to make ordinary things extraordinary.” ~ Emilie Barnes  For Complete Show Notes visit ThankfulHomemaker.com  Scripture & Resources: Colossians 3:15 Psalm 100 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Simple Planning Guide for a Stress-Free and Christ-Focused Thanksgiving Dinner-@Thankful Homemaker Our Simple Thanksgiving Traditions- @Thankful Homemaker Weekend Coffee Break {Thanksgiving Edition}- Some helpful links & resources - @Thankful Homemaker Chocolate Pie Recipe- in this post Pioneer Woman's Mashed Potatoes For Other Recipes Mentioned check out this post. Getting Ready for Company Fast- @Thankful Homemaker Podcast Episode 7: Getting Ready for Company Fast Valley of Vision Prayer History of Thanksgiving- @Got Questions Conversation Starters Ever Thine Home - What are you thankful for? Printable The Valley of Vision: Book of Puritan Prayers by Arthur Bennett Thanksgiving: A Time to Remember by Barbara Rainey Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving by Eric Metaxas Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth Revive Our Hearts 30 Day Gratitude Challenge Thanksgiving Pinterest Board - many more ideas, recipes, and coloring sheet links for kids Thankfulness to God is a recognition that God in His goodness and faithfulness has provided for us and cared for us, both physically and spiritually. It is a recognition that we are totally dependent upon Him; that all that we are and have comes from God. ~ Jerry Bridges Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Find All Podcast Episodes Here with Show Notes  Follow Thankful Homemaker on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest Subscribe to the blog here and not miss a post or podcast episode.    

Self Discipline is essential to spiritual growth and it is useful in our lives in so many ways. Living lives that are disciplined means saying, “yes” to God in every area of our lives. Jesus is our ultimate example of what it looks like to live a disciplined life. He chose both dependence and obedience to His Father. As Christians, we too are called to dependence and obedience to our Father. Self-discipline is primary to our spiritual growth. In 1 Timothy 4:7 We are called to discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. It means to exercise control over one’s self. It’s the ability to keep ourselves under control.   My Practical List: Spend time with the Lord daily Take care of the tasks that are most difficult early in the day. Make sure you finish what you start. Take the time to get organized - one room at a time. Learn to deny yourself. Scripture References & Other Resources Mentioned: 1 Timothy 4:7 Galatians 5:22-23 John 15 1 Peter 1:13 Ephesians 4:14 1 Corinthians 7:22 Matthew 6:24 Matthew 11:30 Romans 6:22 Ephesians 2:8-10 Ephesians 5:15-16 Ecclesiastes 3 1 Corinthians 10:31 Discipline: The Glad Surrender by Elisabeth Elliot Find all the Show Notes & Resources mentioned at ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on: Facebook Instagram Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to the Blog  

On today’s Encore Episode, we’re going to talk about our cell phone use and discuss whether we master our cell phones or do they master us. This podcast was on my mind because of two recent posts at Tim Challies blog on the use of our phones. I recently read the book, 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing Youby Tony Reinke and it was a challenging read. I’m going to share with you some of what I took from that book to get us started, some thoughts on Tim Challies posting about him going back to a “dumb phone” and as we close today some questions for us to ponder from a quiz Tim Challies posted online called Are You Addicted to Your Phone? At the close, I share some ways I desire to make changes with the use of my phone in my life.  "We check our smartphones about 81,500 times each year, or once every 4.3 minutes of our waking lives." ~ Tony Reinke I'm working on a series on marriage for the podcast in the future, and I hope to get my husband on the podcast with me so we can do a few together.I’d love you all to “meet” him. I love listening to him and learning from him. The Lord has given him much wisdom and truly being around him makes me want to be more like Jesus, so I’m thankful to get to have him share here with you all.     Scripture & Resources: 2 Corinthians 3:18 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing Youby Tony Reinke Are You Addicted to Your Phone? (Take a Quiz to Find Out)- @Challies I Want to Buy Your Cheapest Phone- @Challies 12 Steps to Living Smartphone Smart- @Tony Reinke at Lifeway Don't Waste Your Mornings- @Thankful Homemaker Podcast Ep. 6: What Does Self-Discipline Look Like in Our Homes More Resources from Tony Reinke: 12 Tips for Parenting in the Digital Age- @Desiring God Why We Should Escape Social Media (And Why We Don't)- @Desiring God Know When to Walk Away (A Twelve-Step Digital Detox)- @Desiring God Going Deep on Our Smartphone and Social Media Habits- @Desiring God For the Full Show Notes and Resources visit ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow Thankful Homemaker on: Facebook Pinterest Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to the Blog  

The hope on today's episode of contentment is to remind us today how rich we are in Christ and that we will find our satisfaction in Him and Him alone. I want to open with the words of the apostle Paul in Philippians: Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. ~ Philippians 4:11-12 As I've been meditating on Philippians 4:11-12 on contentment I'm reminded that there isn't a program where we can automatically be contented people. No 5 Steps to Contentment or Learn to be Content Retreat Weekend. Contentment in our walk as believers is learned, just as Paul learned it, so do we as we walk this walk with the Lord. It does not come naturally to us. We know deep down the secret to contentment is to keep our eyes on the Lord in every situation. It's when we take our eyes off Him is when we fall into this sin. “So what does contentment mean? It is an inner sense of rest or peace that comes from being right with God and knowing that He is in control of all that happens to us.” ~ Steven J. Cole I've noticed there aren't many books on Christian contentment and a classic is one by Jeremiah Burroughs called The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. The title made me pause and think how well he defined contentment as a rarity even in our life as believers. It is a rarity, and usually, we walk in a spirit of discontentedness. “Christian contentment is that sweet, inward, quiet, gracious frame of spirit, which freely submits to and delights in God's wise and fatherly disposal in every condition.” ~ Jeremiah Burroughs, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment Show Notes: “We have here an account of Paul's learning, not that which he got at the feet of Gamaliel, but that which he got at the feet of Christ.”   ~ Matthew Henry “These are both hard lessons to learn; I do not know which is the more difficult of the two. Probably it is easier to know how to go down than to know how to go up. How many Christians have I seen grandly glorifying God in sickness and poverty when they have come down in the world; and ah! How often have I seen other Christians dishonoring God when they have grown rich, or when they have risen to a position of influence among their fellow-men! These two lessons grace alone can fully teach us.”      ~ Charles Spurgeon The excerpt below from Lydia Brownback's book, Contentment: A Godly Woman's Adornment: “Contentment won't be found in changing the things we don't like about our lives, which is what the author of Hebrews is telling us. In his words, we find why contentment is possible, even when we lack our heart's desires.  We can be content with our lives exactly as they are today because God has promised he is always with us.  Our problem really isn't that we need something we don't have; our problem is that we don't find God to be enough for us.  Many of us can't even comprehend how God can meet us in our empty places and satisfy us fully.  We are open to the idea, but we just don't see how it's possible. Sometimes we get a wrong idea about how God satisfies us.  He doesn't come to us on our terms, taking the role of a surrogate for the things or relationships we lack.  He comes in place of those things, giving us something even better.  The whole reason we can't resonate with the words of Hebrews 13:5  is that we are bound up in the things of this life and our desires for them.  If we would just look away from those, we would find that God delights to fill up our empty places with joy, peace, guidance, love security and communion with him through his Spirit.  Once we get a taste of that we find that it is no second-best consolation prize.  We will find it to be better, richer, fuller than any earthy relationship or material blessing. We can find this for ourselves by guarding against focusing overly much on what this world offers.  We can–and should–certainly enjoy the material things God gives us, but only if we hold them loosely.  It is the love of this world's blessings, the focus on getting them, that is the problem, not the blessings themselves. We don't need anything more than what we have right now, today, in order to be content.  The Bible says so; therefore it must be true.  The choice is ours.” Scripture & Resources: Philippians 4:11-12 Philippians 4:13 1 Corinthians 15:10 Hebrews 13:5 Matthew 6:33 Learning Contentment Practical Steps to Overcome Self-Pity The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment by Jeremiah Burroughs Contentment: A Godly Woman's Adornment by Lydia Brownback A Surprising Ingredient in Christian Contentment- @Desiring God Subscribe to Thankful Homemaker blog Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Follow Thankful Homemaker on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest  

God’s Word reminds us: I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. ~ John 15:5 “apart from me you can do nothing” is a continual reminder that I am utterly dependent on the Lord to do anything. There are many things I can do without dependence on Christ, but the reality is I have achieved “nothing” in God’s sight. This is so true in the raising of our children. Our children are a gift from the Lord, a heritage, a reward (Psalm 127:3) and they are ever so precious to the Lord and us.  Caring for our children is an immeasurable responsibility but one as believers we are not left alone in or to fend for ourselves.  We can cry out to the One who created all things and is the only One who can redeem them. I have learned over the years that I am helplessly dependent on the Lord. I can’t parent on my own. I can’t do anything on my own. As parents, we can’t change the hearts of our children. Only the Lord can change their hearts. This truth should continually bring us to our knees in prayer, but many times we find ourselves thinking we can do this on our own. As a parent of now adult children, I can share that these are the more difficult years of life as the decisions and the difficulties they face are much more challenging than when they were young. Show Notes: “It didn’t take me long to realize that I did my best parenting by prayer. I began to speak less to the kids and more to God. It was actually quite relaxing.”  ~ Paul Miller, A Praying Life God does a much better job of being God than I do. Children are fully dependent on parents for everything. As we get older, we become more and more independent. We need to be reminded to go back to living as dependent children. Living as a dependent child to the Lord in the everyday moments of life is the best example we can give to our children. The prayer below is from Setting Their Hope In God: Biblical Intercession for Your Children page 193 “Eternal God, Let my precious children rejoice in the Word, through whom all things were made.  May they seek life only in Him. Praise be to Your name for causing them to receive Him and believe on His name, for giving them the right to become Your children.  Open their eyes to the glory of the Word, the glory of Your only Son, full of grace and truth.  From His fullness let them receive grace upon grace–the grace and truth that come through Jesus Christ.  Help them to do what is true and come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been carried out in You. Help them not to judge by appearances, but instead to judge with right judgment.  And when they thirst, let them go to Christ and drink.  Let them follow closely after Him always, so that they will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.  Make them abide in His Word as true disciples so that they may know the truth and be set free by it (John 1 & 8).” Related Link: Podcast EP 20: The Blessing of Loving Our Children “I have so much business I cannot get on without spending three hours daily in prayer.” ~Martin Luther Related Link: Podcast EP 43: Hope for Imperfect Parents “What makes a heart upright and what makes prayers pleasing to God is a felt awareness of our tremendous need for mercy.”  ~John Piper “Prayer is bringing your helplessness to Jesus.”  ~ Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life Scripture & Resources: John 15:5 Philippians 4:6-7 Romans 8:28 John 5:19 John 5:30 Luke 5:16 Matthew 18:3 Mark 10:14-15 Luke 10:21 Praying God's Word Over Our Children Podcast Ep 23: Seasons of Waiting A Praying Life: Connecting With God in a Distracting World by Paul Miller Setting Their Hope in God: Biblical Intercession for Your Children by Andrew Case Praying the Bible by Donald S. Whitney Visit ThankfulHomemaker.com for complete show notes mentioned Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram  

Today's podcast episode is a topic we probably don’t find ourselves talking about with others because it can be a bit uncomfortable but it’s one I know we all deal with —it’s addressing our sins of jealousy and envy. It just seems no matter where we are in life we can always find ourselves sinfully comparing ourselves to others. I would think at my age and life stage this would be over, but sadly it's not. How often do I find myself in my head comparing the circumstances of my life to others – too many! Even though it may be just in my head, it's still a sin, and it may seem subtle, but it's not – all sin is an offense against God and one we must continue to do battle with. When we find ourselves dealing with jealousy comparing ourselves to others or envious of others, it's like we're saying to God that we're not satisfied with what He's given us. “If we are to successfully combat the temptations to envy and jealousy, we must mentally bring God into the picture. We must remind ourselves that He determines not only what abilities we have but also the degree of those abilities and the blessing He will bestow on their use.”  ~ Jerry Bridges, Respectable Sins Show Notes: Jerry Bridges, in Respectable Sins, a book I most highly recommended you read, describes jealousy of “intolerance of rivalry.” He shares there are legitimate times to express jealousy, like when someone is trying to win your spouse away from you. Our God declares Himself to be a jealous God (Exodus 20:5). Our jealousy becomes sinful when we become afraid someone is going to be more successful or honored over us. King Saul's jealousy over David (Saul has struck down his thousands and David his ten thousand – 1 Samuel 18:7) is an example of Saul's jealousy over David because honor was given to David and not him. At that moment he saw him as a rival and jealousy took root. Envy is defined by Jerry Bridges as: “the painful and oftentimes resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by someone else. Sometimes we want that same advantage, leading to the further sin of covetousness. And sometimes we resent the other person having something we don't have. But we don't just envy people in general. Usually, there are two conditions that tempt us to envy. First, we tend to envy those with whom we most closely identify. Second, we tend to envy in them the areas we value most.” Scriptures & Resources: Exodus 20:5 1 Samuel 18:7 Romans 1:29-33 Galatians 5:19-21 Psalm 103:10 Philippians 4:12 Hebrews 13:5 Romans12:2 Romans 12:5 Romans 12:10 Philippians 4:11-12 Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges Messy Beautiful Friendship: Finding and Nurturing Deep and Lasting Relationships by Christine Hoover Visit ThankfulHomemaker.com for the complete show notes. Follow Thankful Homemaker on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to the blog and not miss a podcast episode or post

How many imperfect parents out there? Raise your hands. I’m hoping all my parents out there raised their hands. We are going to experience failure in our parenting – it’s not an option but a reality in our lives on this fallen earth. Don’t we all find ourselves at times sure that we’ve ruined our children? How many times have we yelled, acted rashly in our correction and the list of mistakes and sinful responses towards them we’ve made over the years sadly goes on. We’re going to fail – and in saying that it doesn’t mean our failure shouldn’t affect us. I know we all are saddened by the times we’ve caused hurt in any way to our children, and this isn’t a podcast to just give us a pass to the failures we’ve caused our children. We need to seek the forgiveness of our children, repent to the Lord of wrongs we’ve caused to them and to the best of our ability and by the grace of God avoid hurting them in the future when possible. We must remember always that we are sinners’ parenting sinners. Sin affects every one of our relationships. Romans 7:18-19 is true in my role as a parent just as it’s true in my relationship with all others on this earth. For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. We are not perfect—we already know this. Remember that it is God’s grace that transforms our lives and the lives of our children – it’s not our perfect or more likely imperfect parenting.  He is the only One that has the power to transform their hearts and minds.  This doesn’t mean we don’t strive to set a pattern and routine for our homes that directs the hearts of our children towards Him.  It is our duty as parents to train up our children in His ways but we can’t trust that our parenting is going to save them.         Scripture & Resources: Romans 7:18-19 Ephesians 6:1-4 Deuteronomy 6:4-9 Matthew 19:25-26 John 6:37 1 Corinthians 15:10 Romans 3:23 Psalm 119:11 Matthew 18:22 2 Corinthians 12:9 Parents, Require Obedience of Your Children  God's Blessing Does Not Depend on Our Performance Podcast Ep 20: The Blessings of Loving Our Children Podcast Ep 18: Putting on an Attitude of Love in Our Homes Parenting: 14 Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul Tripp Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus by Elyse Fitzpatrick Free eBook - Motherhood Delighting in Our Children by Marci Ferrell Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app Find all podcast episodes with show notes here Visit Thankful Homemaker on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest The rest of the show notes are at ThankfulHomemaker.com   

As we start getting back into fall and a routine (as we talked about last week at the podcast), I wanted to share a bit of encouragement for all of us today. Who doesn't like to be encouraged? Our time today is just a reminder that no one out there has it all together. We are a continual work in progress in the Lord's hand. If I shared only what I had mastered on this podcast, it would be non-existent ;). So today listen in and be reminded that no one has a perfect marriage, family or home while living on this fallen earth but that doesn't mean we just throw in the towel and stop trying. I'm reminded and reminding us today of God's Word to persevere and work heartily as unto the Lord, and this includes my normal day to day life of caring for a home and family. In the spirit of Titus 2, I want to be an encouragement in the areas of loving our husbands and children, being keepers of our homes, being self-controlled and submissive to our husbands so God's Word will not be reviled. We need to share our struggles but not leave each other there. But we need to spur one another on to love and good deeds. My hope always is to point one another back to Christ and to live by and abide in His Word. My greatest comfort in this world is that Jesus Christ is enough.  He is enough on the days when everything goes wrong and on the days when it seems that everything is falling apart.  Come listen in with us today. For the full show notes head to ThankfulHomemaker.com  Follow Thankful Homemaker on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast  Scripture & Resources: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Homemaking 101 Series: Getting Dressed Are You Kind to Your Husband? What's for Dinner? Weekly Home Blessing 18 Ways to Be Your Husband's Helper Busyness is Not Godliness Podcast Ep 32: Preparing Our Families for Sunday Morning Worship Battling Our Sins of Envy & Jealousy Podcast Ep 28: Dealing with Our Anxiousness and Worry (Matthew 6:25-34) How to Resist Gossip Homemaking Ministries Online Conference - The Deep Dive Summit Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group  

Are you struggling with getting back into a routine after the summer months? I know for us our summer months are a bit more spontaneous and flexible so I'm out of a daily routine quite often. Summer brings a sense of unpredictable days in our home. We don’t always have a regular schedule, and we’re on the go or outside more than usual so we may find our inside tasks take a back seat and our regular routine schedule doesn’t happen as often as it does in the fall, winter and even spring seasons. For me, I’m not sure why this is because I’m not even dealing with kids in school anymore but it just seems to be a rhythm in my life too in this season. I love to be open to spontaneous adventures and not get caught up in what needs to be done at home because I’ve learned over the years - the reality is – it always gets done. I do still get things accomplished in the summer, and my home is still running pretty smooth – it’s not a total disaster, but I have to share – I honestly miss the regular routines I’m used to. I am a creature of habit. I don’t find myself deep cleaning or de-cluttering or overly organizing anything. For some reason, I tend to drift towards those chores in the fall and winter months. So listen in as we talk about what it looks like on getting back into a routine after summer. Show Notes: Planners Mentioned: Brilliant Life Planner iBloom Planner Living Well Planner Articles & Podcasts Mentioned: Homemaking 101 Series: The Routines of the Day The Joy of a Morning Routine The Peacefulness of an Evening Routine Podcast Ep 21: The Routines of the Day - Making the Most of Your Morning and Evenings Menu Planning 101 Podcast Ep 12: Simple Menu Planning Tips Homemaking 101: My Daily, Weekly, Monthly Tasks Podcast Ep 16: Simplify Your Housekeeping with a Cleaning Schedule for Your Home Podcast Ep 27: Planning Our Days as Homemakers How I Plan my Days Bringing Order to Our Homes Podcast Ep. 14: Simple Tips for a Clutter-Free Home Podcast Ep. 29: Where to Begin When You're Overwhelmed in Caring for Your Home Grab your Free Weekly Menu Planning PDF Find the show notes and resources mentioned at ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow Thankful Homemaker on: Facebook Instagram Pinterest Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  

Sex is a beautiful gift from God. As Christian’s we have God’s permission to enjoy sex within our marriages – God invented it. We can learn not just to enjoy it but delight in intimacy with our husbands Martha Peace shares: The physical union of husband and wife is designed by God to meet God-given desire for companionship, to protect the husband and wife from temptation, and for the mutual giving and receiving of great pleasure and joy between the husband and wife. Companionship is strengthened by the private, intimate, physical bond of a married couple. Even as Christians we can too easily let the world or other voices in the church give us our view of sex when it has to come from God’s Word. God’s Word is sufficient in all ways and especially and even in our sexual relationship with our husband. Resources: Thankful Homemaker on Instagram Homemaking Ministries 2018 Online Conference - The Deep Dive Summit Marriage Series at the Blog My Favorite Resources on Sex and Sexual Intimacy in Marriage The Excellent Wife: A Biblical Perspective by Martha Peace Intended for Pleasure: Sex Technique and Sexual Fulfillment in Christian Marriage by Ed Wheat Intimate Issues: 21 Questions Christian Women Ask About Sex by Linda Dillow and Lorraine Pintus When Sinners Say I Do by Dave Harvey Rekindling the Romance: Loving the Love of Your Life by Dennis & Barbara Rainey A Celebration of Sex: A Guide to Enjoying God's Gift of Sexual Intimacy by Dr. Doug Rosenau Strengthening Your Marriage by Wayne Mack The Intimate Marriage: A Practical Guide to Building a Great Marriage by R. C. Sproul My Abortion story & Why I Counsel at Abortuariesat Thankful Homemaker The Devilish Puppet Master of the Word-Faith Movementsermon at Grace to You on False Prophets Weekend to Remember from Family Life Today Podcast Ep. 35: Marriage Series #2 - To Love Their Husbands at Thankful Homemaker Podcast Ep. 17: What it Looks Like to Cherish Our Husbands at Thankful Homemaker Follow Thankful Homemaker at: Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter Subscribe to the blog to never miss a post here.  For all the show notes, quotes and resources head to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

We're going to discuss in today's podcast about how well we communicate with our spouses. God created us as relational beings so we are designed to communicate not just with Him but with one another. Because we're created in God's image, our communication within our marriages should be one of intimacy, beauty, and harmony.  Communication is a huge part of our lives together. We share all of life together in our marriages and home should be a place where we can be vulnerable, open and honest with one another regarding all areas of our lives. We're going to break the show today down into three areas: Listening well, our day-to-day communication and dealing in a God-honoring way with conflict. Because of Jesus, we can have homes where we communicate with grace and peace. Our tongues can be tamed by the gospel – Jesus came to set us free. We are new creatures in Christ. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com 

We are continuing in our marriage series on the podcast, and this is the second half of the episode on submission. If you didn't get a chance to listen to the first one where my husband joined us you can do that here. I highly recommend it before listening in to this one. My husband shared last week on the theology of submission, and I'm continuing on today on what submission in marriage is and what it isn't. When we are living out the beautiful doctrine of submission the unbelieving world around us will take notice. They will see wives respecting and loving their husbands.  Peace and joy in our homes.  Wives who talk about their husbands with honor and respect.  Wives who look to their husbands for guidance and leadership and are true helpers that come alongside them in the advancement of God’s Kingdom.  They will see marriages filled with genuine love and affection. My hope today in our time together is to give you the practical application in our everyday lives of what submission in marriage looks like and what it doesn’t look like. Please know that when I am sharing with you, it does not mean I have this area of my life mastered.  I am still a learner, and God continues to teach me much.  Let’s pray that with the Lord’s help we can all be more obedient to God’s ways and grow in the grace and knowledge of our Savior. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

We're continuing on in our marriage series and podcast episode 37 is part one of a two-part episode in the series on submission. I'm a bit excited to have my husband joining us today and he's going to work through with us what is the theology of submission. You can find all the podcast episodes in the marriage series here.  We're camping in the text of Ephesians 5:22-24: 22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. That’s the Christian wedding text that everybody wants their pastor to use for the ceremony but after the wedding cake, it becomes a real struggle in its application! It is a text often quoted, usually misunderstood and misapplied and creates a lot of unnecessary tension in a marriage. And that is why it is critical for us as married couples who are followers of Jesus, His disciples, to grasp this properly and obey its teachings. And so what we should attempt to accomplish in our short time together is the theology embedded in this principle of submission; that is, what does God mean in His command for wives to submit to their husbands? For the show notes and scriptures mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

We’re continuing in our series on marriage at the podcast, and episode 36 is on respect.  So far we've covered God's Design for Marriage and Our Role as Women, Loving Our Husbands, and today we're talking about what does it look like to show respect to our husbands. What is respect? How is it defined? The dictionary defines it - A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. We are called by God to respect our husband’s position of headship in the home, and as we do this, we are honoring God first and foremost. God has called them to this position, and He has called us to respect their position. God has called our husbands, just like us, to be like Christ. One way we do this is by submitting our will and humbling ourselves before the Lord and taking the place of a servant in our homes. Christ is our ultimate example of a loving, respectful servant. This is only going to come about when we get a right view of who God.  God is worthy of my trust and loyalty and respect and submission (please take a listen to Podcast Ep 31 on The Supremacy of God). This is part of His plan. The apostle Paul started out the verses here in Ephesians 5:22-33 with love and submission and he ends them here in Ephesians 5:33 with love and respect. For the rest of the show notes and resources mentioned visit ThankfulHomemaker.com  

We’re continuing in a series here at the podcast on marriage. Each episode can stand alone, but they are meant to be listened to together. Last week we talked about God’s Design for Marriage and Our Role as Women. We touched briefly on areas of submission, respect, and love. Today we’re going to start by seeing what God’s Word has to say about loving our husbands. I struggled with titling the episode, so I borrowed it from scripture from Titus 2:4 passage that we are to be taught by the older women “to love their husbands.” Before we dig into that passage, I want to work through with you on what is love?  Love is a necessary factor in our marriages. If we don’t have love for one another there’s going to be a lot of issues in our marriage. Without love in our marriages they’re going to be difficult to endure, any problems in the marriage will be difficult to overcome, as time goes on when we live in a relationship where there is no love the relationship is going to begin to fall apart. We’re not going to like each other very much or have any desire to be near one another, and it is just a dangerous place to be. God’s Word is clear on the importance of love in all our relationships and especially in our marriages. In a most familiar passage - Matthew 22:37-40 states: 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” We stated last week that our husbands are our closest neighbors. When love is talked about, do we understand what it truly is or what it means when God commands us to love our neighbor as ourselves? We married our spouse because we loved them. Now that we’ve been married a bit we can find ourselves acting very unloving at times or maybe a lot of times and wondering what happened? We can’t exhaustively cover today what real love is, but I do desire to work through on what God’s Word says because He’s given us a clear idea of what real love is in His Word. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

I am so grateful to be back at the podcast and excited about this upcoming series on marriage. I've enjoyed my study time for this series and this first one is foundational because it lays out from God's Word His design for marriage and what our role is He has called us to as women. As we dig in together today if you can sit with a Bible handy that would be a help as we're covering a lot of verses. They are all listed below so you can go back and refer to them later. Genesis 2:18-25 is my main text in understanding God's design for marriage. My husband is going to join in on the podcasts on submission and I'm looking forward to working together with him on this series. We've been married over 32 years and consider ourselves continual learners in our walk with the Lord and in our marriage. The Lord has grown us in our love for Him and in that, in our love for one another. I have said it before but my Doug makes me want to be more like Jesus. For the complete show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com Future Podcasts in this Series: (not official titles yet but it gives you the topics at least) Loving our Husbands Respecting Our Husbands Submission (two-part series) Communication Intimacy Resources: Homemaking Ministries Conference - Deep Dive Summit The Creation of Woman- John MacArthur Sermon The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace God of Creation by Jen Wilkin Strengthening Your Marriage by Wayne Mack ESV Study Bible John MacArthur Study Bible Podcast Ep 17:  Cherishing Our Husbands Podcast: Loving Our Husbands- Women's Hope Podcast Who Am I by Jerry Bridges Feminine Appeal by Carolyn Mahaney Love Has a Price Tag by Elisabeth Elliot A Picture-Perfect Marriage- Tim Challies For the complete show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com      

On today’s episode, we’re going to talk about our cell phone use and discuss whether we master our cell phones or do they master us. This podcast was on my mind because of two recent posts at Tim Challies blog on the use of our phones. I recently read the book, 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You by Tony Reinke and it was a challenging read.  I’m going to share with you some of what I took from that book to get us started, some thoughts on Tim Challies posting about him going back to a “dumb phone” and as we close today some questions for us to ponder from a quiz Tim Challies posted online called Are You Addicted to Your Phone? At the close, I share some ways I desire to make changes with the use of my phone in my life.  Also, I have an announcement that I’ll be taking a short hiatus from the podcast but will be back with the regular weekly podcast sometime in early July.I’m working on content currently for the next Homemaking Ministries Conference coming up this fall – it’s my favorite online conference, and I hope you’ll join us again if you have in the past and if you haven’t yet I hope you will. There will be more details to come on it this summer. I'm working on a series on marriage for the podcast in the future, and I hope to get my husband on the podcast with me so we can do a few together.I’d love you all to “meet” him. I love listening to him and learning from him. The Lord has given him much wisdom and truly being around him makes me want to be more like Jesus, so I’m thankful to get to have him share here with you all. You can find the show notes and resources mentioned at ThankfulHomemaker.com   

How many times does Sunday morning roll around and you find your heart in a state of chaos instead of calm to worship the Lord?  How many Sunday’s do you arrive at church and realize you haven’t taken the time all week to pray for your pastor or your church family? I want to share with you some simple steps we can take to prepare our hearts and the hearts of our families for Sunday morning worship to the Lord. The hope today is to get you to understand the purpose and the mission of the local church and then to move on toward how we can proceed with some simple steps to prepare our hearts and the hearts of our families for Sunday morning worship to the Lord. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

On today’s episode, I’m sharing with you a message that I shared at our church's recent women’s retreat. Our time together at the retreat was spent learning about the attributes of God. I started the weekend off sharing about the Supremacy, Eternality, Self-Sufficiency, and Self-Existence of our most awesome God and I wanted to share what I learned with you all here today. It has been said that what comes into a person’s mind when he or she thinks about God is the most important thing about him or her. When we have a high view of God, it will lead to holy living, worship, evangelism, and service. I hope to spark within you today a heart’s desire to study more about this wonderful God we love and are known by. When we gain a better understanding of Who God is, we will be better equipped in our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Every area of our life and worldview is influenced by who we understand God to be. When we speak of God's attributes, we are talking about those characteristics that help us to understand who He truly is. We will never be able to fully grasp the depth of God’s character, but I hope we can get a bit more of a glimpse in our short time together today. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

The need for self-control is clear in God’s Word. There is much said about it. We live in a world where we are tempted daily to overindulge and live outside our boundaries. We live in a world that is dominated by “self” – Self-centeredness, self-pity, selfishness, self-deception. Wayne Barber shared: What’s the middle letter of the word sin? What’s the middle letter? What’s the middle letter of the word pride? Now, you take those two things out—which by the way, the cross does—then you don’t even have a word. When you say yes to Him, you’ve just crucified the “I,” the flesh. Proverbs 25:28 says, "like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control over his spirit." This proverb gives us a picture of a city with its walls broken down and is utterly defenseless as a picture of what happens when our wall of defense. Our self-control is gone, and we’re not able to battle the sinful desires that wage war against our soul. Self-control means to master our emotions instead of being mastered by them. It is the ability to control oneself and in particular our emotions and desires or the expression of them in our behavior – especially in difficult situations. For the show notes and resources mentioned in the podcast head to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

I’m sharing today from a post I wrote quite awhile back called Where to Begin When You're Overwhelmed, and it was dealing with our home keeping. It’s been a very controversial post and people either have a love or hate relationship with it. I’m hoping you all are in the love camp today because I’m not a fan of being in the hate camp. Before we begin, I want to lay out a statement here that I want you to remember as we walk through this. What I’m sharing is going to look different in every home. I don’t know all the battles or circumstances in your home from health and illness difficulties or various trials you’re dealing with. This may not be the season of your life for you to listen to a podcast on this topic right now. I’m never talking about perfection or Stepford wives or making an idol out of your homekeeping or whatever your thinking because as soon as you write a post or share a podcast about this topic of homekeeping that’s where the conversation tends to go. This isn’t about having a Martha Stewart lifestyle in your homemaking. It is about the heart of a homemaker who loves the Lord and desires to love and care for her family well because of the God she serves.It is out of a heart of love and thankfulness because she has been redeemed. Thank you, Jesus! This also does not mean you don’t do anything outside your home or saying you can’t work outside the home or have any employment. I work for my husband’s business and have ever since my kiddos were young.  In my past - I’ve worked outside the home and inside the home and still work inside the home as a homemaker and for my husband’s business. This is not a SAHM vs. working mom podcast. This is for all Christian women in whatever season of life you’re in. I want to chat with you today as if I’m talking with my daughter – (Hello My Amberif you’re listening) and encouraging her in the role the Lord has called her to as laid out in Titus 2:3-5 3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, 4 and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. Getting some foundational understanding of why we are called keepers of our homes will be an encouragement in itself not to be overwhelmed in your homekeeping, but I hope to set your mind on things of the Lord and His ways today. For the show notes and resources mentioned please head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

We are discussing on today's podcast what God’s Word has to say about our anxiousness and worry. We’ve been working through the book of Matthew at church and have been in the Sermon on the Mount for quite a few months now. I’ve been utilizing D. Martin Lloyd Jones sermon series to read along with the scriptures as I prepare for Sunday mornings. It’s a great resource, and it’s called Studies in the Sermon on the Mount. One thing Pastor Ross shared about this text (Matthew 6:25-34) and what I want to begin with is an area that convicted me. When I am worried about a situation – I’m creating an idol. Worry reveals the idols of my heart, something I treasure more than Christ. My worry usually isn’t about physical things. It can be at times, but my worry and anxious thoughts usually come about with situations in my life that I have no control over. I tend to worry about the outcomes that I have no control over, pretty pointless. At that moment I forget Who is in control and my thoughts are self-centered and I believe at that moment that I know better than God. Ugh – that’s sin and my worry surely isn’t helping God in any way. At that moment – how Pastor Ross put it – I have forgotten that God is ruler – not me. The passage in (Matthew 6:25-34) reminds me what Jesus says to worriers like myself.  As we walk through this passage today my prayer is that the Lord would speak to my heart and yours and the hope is we will both be reminded that the Lord knows what we need and has already provided for it. For the show notes and resources listed head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

I have always been a planner oriented person. I love notebooks and pens and making lists. I love seeing items I have to-do written down. Planning has been a help to me in caring well for my home and family. It helps me to keep order and meet the needs of my family and others while still getting time to do some of the things I love to do too (like write on this blog here).  I'd like to walk through with you today how I use my planner to plan my days. It isn't meant to be copied buy to spark ideas on ways you can plan your days working with the way God has wired you.  The days and weeks I take the time to plan well are the ones that are my most productive and efficient. I hope you'll be encouraged today to grab a few nuggets that may work for you and your life.  For the Show Notes & Resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com To get a copy, while supplies last of The Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner at half-price ($7.50) you can do that here.

When our families go through battles with illness we know, as the mom, there seem to be no sick days for us. We may have quieter and relaxing days as we battle through the illness, but the needs of the home seem to await us until we are feeling better. Times of difficult trials can also place stress on our homes. How can we keep the peace of our homes when we do not at the moment see closure to the situation the Lord is bringing us through? Are you a tired mom out there who feels like everything you work so hard to get done seems to get almost immediately undone? I remember those days with toddlers in the house. Communicating clearly and patiently and pointing our children to Christ in our conversations with them is hard. Nurturing the hearts of our children is hard work. Day in and day out the workday of a mom can be physically but sometimes even more so emotionally exhausting. There is one comfort I can always bring us back to: I can assure you there is One who knows what it is like to be exhausted. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. ~ Hebrews 4:15 The hope today is to encourage you in these challenging times, give some practical help and point you back to God's Word. So listen in with me today. For the Show Notes and Resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

How would you like to build relationships with your family, teach good conversation skills, work on proper table manners, eat healthier and laugh and enjoy each other’s company as a family? The solution is simple. Take the time to make the most of your family dinners. Do you think of your family table as a place of discipleship? Our family tables are a place where we can offer Christ to others. Our hope is that our children and others would leave with more than just full bellies but with the truth of Jesus who wants to feed their souls. Does it sound a bit overwhelming? It doesn’t have to be, and I’m sharing some simple tips today that I hope will be an encouragement to you. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

We’re talking about a topic that I pretty confidently say effects all of us. It’s our grumbling and complaining. My hope today is that the Lord would fill us with joy no matter our circumstances and we would rejoice always and give thanks in all things. As believers we can do this and how do I know this - because as it says in Philippians 2:13 – it is God who is at work in you. So let’s dig in, and I pray that as we start our time together today, you will pray for the Lord to give you a thankful heart. Why does it seem grumbling and complaining is so tolerated within our Christianity? Sometimes I think we tolerate it because we don’t always think of it as sin since it is so commonly practiced among us. We grumble about the weather, our government, our churches, our circumstances and so many other things that truly are trivial in light of eternity. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to thankfulhomemaker.com and click on the podcast show notes menu tab. 

As I’m sharing this episode I’m finding myself in a waiting room on the Lord, and it’s been a long one, and I don’t see an end near.  It has reminded me that when I gave myself to Him, I gave up my “right” to be in charge. The reality is we never were in charge anyway; we just came to that understanding when the Lord opened our eyes to His sovereign control over our lives. Even though it is a truth I know or we know, how many times do we want to think that somehow we can effect change in our life situations? Waiting is hard because there is no guarantee that my waiting will end in this lifetime. One thing I have learned - my waiting has deepened my trust in the Lord and has helped me to develop patience, perseverance, and endurance. It’s also given me different eyes to see with compassion others who are in a season of waiting. For the show notes and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com

On today’s podcast episode, we’re going to talk together about how to have a Christ-centered Easter celebration. We’re going to talk a bit about the importance of the resurrection, walk through the gospel, and share some ideas to help us point our family to the risen Jesus and His gift of salvation. We know this time of year the stores are filled with Easter baskets, chocolates, and egg coloring kits but as Christian’s our celebration of Easter focuses on the truth that we serve a risen Lord. Our God is alive, and that truth is where our hope lies. He is Risen! Jesus is Alive! As a mom and now grandmother I desire our celebration of Easter or as many of us call it The Celebration of the Resurrection, to be Christ-focused. I’m not elaborate in our celebrations, but I desire to be intentional. I want to share more than just our traditional meal together; I want to point my family to the gift of Jesus. Please visit ThankfulHomemaker.com for the show notes and resources listed in the podcast. 

I find comfort in the routines of the day. We all have areas of our lives that need to be taken care of on a daily basis. Having routines set in your day can make the whole day run smoothly, and those routines tend to become habits over time. I am such an advocate of having a morning and evening routine because they have helped to simplify and make my days run smoothly for over 25 years now. Starting your day with focus and structure does help you to maintain some order and not have a day of complete chaos. Even if the rest of the day turns to chaos, you have already accomplished a  lot in that first hour or two of the morning. Whether you're a morning person, not a morning person a mother with littles or someone who already has some solid routines in place, I hope to have some encouragement for you all today. For the show notes and resources mentioned in the podcast head to ThankfulHomemaker.com and click on the Podcast Show Notes tab in the menu bar. 

There is a favorite book I turn to often to look for encouragement in my role as a wife and mother. God’s Word is always my first destination but a book that I came across several years ago is Feminine Appeal by Carolyn Mahaney. Carolyn is looking at our role as Titus 2 women and what the scripture teaches by taking apart that verse a section at a time. Chapter three is an excellent guide to show us what God’s Word says about loving our children. The chapter starts off by reminding us as mom’s how good we are at self-sacrificing love. It is a rare experience to meet a woman who doesn’t sacrifice for her children and daily lay down her life to serve them. We are good at that kind of love. I have two adult children and three grandbabies. I can tell you I fiercely love all my babies – my now grown children and those little grandbabies. This mama would do anything for them and be there in a heartbeat. Whether we have our own children or spiritual children we have a high calling to love these children and point them to Christ. This high calling of motherhood is truly an honor, and I hope that today I can with the Lord’s help, to help us to grasp this. I’ve talked much about cleaning and homekeeping and scheduling over the years but the moments we get with our children are hopefully pointing them to the reality that life is bigger than cleaning and cooking and that our example would be one of the sacrificial love of Jesus and of laying down your life for another. You are a disciple mama, and you are to be making disciples in your home. It is a tiring job at times and can seem overwhelming many days, but I hope that you will be reminded today in our time that you can’t do anything without the strength of Christ. In Christ Mama, we can do all things with great joy. So let’s look together at the blessings of loving our children:  For the show notes, links and resources mentioned head to ThankfulHomemaker.com. To get your free copy of my eBook - Motherhood: Delighting in Our Children click here.

We all have habits we already do on a day to day basis. Habits are things that just happen without us thinking about them anymore. We brush our teeth, make our beds, maybe we exercise regularly, eat meals, or wake up and have a cup of coffee. We do these things now without thinking – it’s so good to have things we do without thinking! But a habit isn’t just a by-product of repetition. We can also develop and form new habits. I can’t determine what habits you would like to develop in your homemaking, but I can encourage you to ponder and start small by doing just one. Maybe you don’t clean the dishes up after dinner immediately and leave them until morning. Would you like to change that habit and do clean up the night before? When we have built good habits into our homekeeping they can become time savers for us and create more freedom into our days.   Visit ThankfulHomemaker.com for the show notes and links from this episode. 

How can we as believers "put on" an attitude of love in our homes? What does it look like to "put off" sinful responses and attitudes and "put on" God-honoring attitudes? I'm hoping today to encourage you that as believers we can "put on" attitudes and behaviors that are God-honoring. If we are in Christ, He has equipped us to do so through His presence within us and through our intake of God's truth.  We're working through Ephesians 4:22-24 together today: Ephesians 4:22-24: 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. We have a new nature when we receive Christ and are born again – we become a totally different individual – we’re now a citizen of heaven Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation the old has gone the new has come. ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17 The apostle Paul reminds us throughout his epistles that we have a new nature. It affects our mind, heart, knowledge, wisdom, love, desires and every aspect of our being. According to God’s Word, we are new – transformed. As believers, we now have a new nature. Our behavior is now able to match our new nature because Christ is in us. We are risen with Christ, and we should now behave in accordance with who we are. For show notes and links mentioned, please head to www.thankfulhomemaker.com and click on the podcast tab in the menu bar. 

One of the most fundamental ways to manage our homes well is to take the time to plan. Planning is merely deciding in advance the what, why and how things will be done even cleaning. Ladies the time it takes to put together a plan for the care and upkeep of your home is well worth your time and energy. You know the saying that sorta goes like this - “Many women plan to fail because they fail to plan.” On the other side of that, we can do so much planning and never get to the action part. I love to sit and plan – cleaning would not be my favorite – I say that but it really is getting started, and once I get moving on it I enjoy it because of the instant results you see from it. I want to remind you here this is a method or methods – I’m sharing three that I use at various times and seasons in my life - that work well for me and my personality. I’m not a naturally organized person and actually can be quite messy. My friends would not say this about me because when they come over, they see a neat and tidy home. I have to work hard to go against the bent of my natural personality in this area. I have trained myself to become a tidy home keeper – not perfect but neat and orderly. I still have my certain drawers and areas that I need to continue to declutter and organize, but overall I have worked to make my home easy to clean and keep orderly. I desire my home to be a haven for my family. I also don’t want to spend all my time and energy just cleaning my house. I desire to give my family and other relationships my time, so I’ve learned to manage my home well, so it doesn’t control me and take up all my time. I also appreciate having a house ready to offer hospitality and fellowship to others at a moment’s notice. My point I’m trying to make here is that my cleaning method or methods may not work for you, but I want you as you listen to me today ponder what type of cleaning schedule – if you don’t have one already- would help you to care and manage your home. Visit www.thankfulhomemaker.com for the Show Notes.  

As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ not one of us would desire to remain a babe in the faith.  We all desire to grow more in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Spiritual growth doesn’t happen by osmosis – you have to be disciplined in putting God’s truth in your mind.  Spending time with the Lord in His Word will transform our hearts and compel us to obey God’s Word. As we grow in our understanding of God’s Word we will develop convictions that will determine how we will live or how we hope to live.  God’s Word helps us to develop principles that we desire to live our lives by – this is the process of sanctification. “Sanctification is a process – the process of becoming more like Christ, of growing in holiness. This process begins the instant you are converted and will not end until you meet Jesus face-to-face. Sanctification is about our own choices and behavior. It involves work.  Empowered by God’s Spirit, we strive. We fight sin. We study Scripture and pray, even when we don’t feel like it. We flee temptation. We press on; we run hard in the pursuit of holiness. And as we become more and more sanctified, the power of the gospel conforms us more and more closely, with ever-increasing clarity, to the image of Jesus Christ.” ~C.J. Mahaney Growing spiritually is the most important step in our role as Christian wives and mothers.  I do not have true wisdom to offer my family because true wisdom comes from the Lord and knowledge of Him.   I know what you’re going to say – I barely have time to breath how am I going to fit in time with the Lord.   Stick with me here today because I’m hoping I have some tips that will motivate you or at least seem doable that you can work into your current season of life. Find the show notes and more information at the blog - www.thankfulhomemaker.com

We all have this vision of working in this perfectly organized home where there is a place for everything, and everything is in its place. We picture saving time and money and less stress in this place, but many times that’s as far as we get. It’s just a vision, and we never get there. I hope today we can see that it isn’t just a dream, but we can get there. There are many ways to declutter, and I’m going to share some methods that have worked for me and I hope will inspire you today to start working away at your clutter piece by piece with me. I love to work in an orderly workspace. I love order and beauty in my home.  Studies have proven that people think clearer and better in uncluttered environments. Clutter is a real enemy.  Clutter can keep us from enjoying our families and homes as it takes up our time, can rob us of our joy, can add stress to our lives and takes up our living space. I was going to initially share a podcast this week on cleaning schedules (that’s a future one coming soon), but as I started writing it, I realized this is an area that needs to be dealt with before we can start cleaning. Remember we can’t clean clutter. You can find the show notes at www.thankfulhomemaker.com  

As I’m sharing this with you today, I don’t know what you my listeners are coming to this podcast with.  I don’t know the hurts in your lives.  Hurtful words, betrayal from a friend, disappointments, and even much darker areas of abuse to unspeakable offenses that many of us could not even fathom. Many times we can just go on trying to live in a state of normalcy all the while these past hurts are building resentment and bitterness in our hearts. Our God does not want us to be stuck there.  In Christ, we have the freedom to be set free.   Forgiveness is a choice.  It is not a denial that whatever hurt has been done against you isn’t real, but it does mean you need to face it and be reminded that not forgiving that sin against you is a sin in itself. For the links and show notes visit www.thankfulhomemaker.com

Who doesn’t want to save money, time, their sanity, reduce stress, eat healthy and avoid the dreaded question "What’s for dinner?" It sounds great right, and we’d all love to do it but how do we get there? Menu planning is the answer to all those questions above. We have a jam-packed episode today filled with tons of tips, examples, and ideas so stick with me, and I know there will be something that will appeal to each of you in some way. I hope to get you in the habit of menu planning if you’re not already and if you already are but find yourself in a rut, then I hope this episode will give you some encouragement to keep going. If you’re already a die-hard habitual menu planner, maybe you’ll gain some new ideas to jazz up your weekly menu plan. Come check out the show notes and all the links mentioned in the podcast at www.ThankfulHomemaker.com

We are already nearing Christmas Eve and plans that I had to bake or buy or clean haven’t all been finished.  There are gifts I wanted to purchase or send that didn’t happen.  There are cookies I wanted to bake that I didn’t get too and areas I wanted to tidy at home that I didn’t even get close to doing. But I want to share with you today reminders that I’m talking to myself about what I am choosing. I’m hoping to help us keep our focus on the main thing this Christmas season. You can read the full podcast here, but my hope is you will sit with me for just a few minutes of your day and listen in to the podcast and let me pour into you a bit.  Thank you for spending your time with me today - I am blessed by each one of you. Thank you for your prayers, for your sweet notes of encouragement to me and for supporting this little ministry here at Thankful Homemaker by listening in to this podcast. I’ll be taking a break for the next week to enjoy family time. I will see you all next year back here at the blog and podcast. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year my dear friends. Find the full show notes for this episode at ThankfulHomemaker.com Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App Subscribe to ThankfulHomemaker.com  

As the busy Christmas season is upon us we can find ourselves all wrapped up (literally wrapping too) in planning, cooking, cleaning, shopping, decorating, ministry activities and a multitude of other tasks that seem to come about during the Christmas season in addition to just the normal activities of life that we are dealing with. I personally can lose focus and need to continue to pray to the Lord to remind me to have the heart of Mary and not get caught up with the attitude of Martha in all that needs to be done. I’m a very task focused person, and it’s how my mind works so I need to be intentional and prayerful to not miss the wonder of the Christmas season. The Christmas season can be a time – a reminder to us to refocus - to again to think deeply about the realities of who Jesus is and what He has done for us. For more information and the show notes visit www.thankfulhomemaker.com  

I'm going to cross into a sensitive area but I'm hoping you will hang in here with me today and ponder some of what I'm sharing. This is an area that has been on my heart to talk about partly because I'm convicted by it when I see this sin in my life but also because I know the damage it can to in our churches and amidst our relationships with other Christians. I'm addressing today when we have a critical or judgmental spirit against others. What is the spirit of the Pharisees that we want to avoid? It is that of a self-righteous spirit. It's when we look down on others whether inwardly or express it outwardly. We may despise them or look at them with contempt or annoyance. It is being a fault finder.  We're going to be working through the text of Matthew 7:1-5 open your Bibles and join in with me today as we ask the Lord to help us do battle with our critical, sinful spirits.  You can find resources and complete show notes at www.thankfulhomemaker.com  

My quick cleaning method I'm going to share with you has been serving me well for many years. I appreciate being able to make my family feel comfy and well cared for along with those we shoe hospitaltity to so I use this list for an occasional quick clean up for my family and company too. Listen in as I share today my top ten cleaning tips in preparing for company. 

Self-discipline is essential to spiritual growth and it is useful in our lives in so many ways. Living lives that are disciplined means saying, "yes" to God in every area of our lives. Jesus is our ultimate example of what it looks like to live a disciplined life. He chose both dependence and obedience to His Father. As Christians we too are called to dependence and obedience to our Father. Self-discipline is primary to our spiritual growth. In 1 Timothy 4:7 we are called to discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness. It means to exercise control over one's self. It's the ability to keep ourselves under control.

As believers in Jesus Christ kindness should characterize our lives. Paul says in Titus 3:3-4 what change his life was the kindness of Jesus. Let's dig into God's Word together to see what God tells us about kindness.

Being women I know we are all interested in the topic of friendship because we are all relational creatures. There is something in the heart of every Christian woman that desires meaningful, intimate, godly friendships. My hope today is to point us to the Word of God and what He says about godly friendships.

My hope is to encourage you today to be thankful to the role the Lord has called you in as a keeper of the home. 

Do you ever find yourself having "gospel amnesia"? Gospel amnesia is when I can find myself forgetting what the Lord has done for me at the Cross and I find myself sinfully complaining about difficult life situations.

On this episode of Thankful Homemaker we're talking about how our tongues can get us into so much trouble. We tend to have many words. Many times we're not careful with our words and say things that are slanderous, or gossip or sadly at times even malicious. This should not be for women who love the Lord and are loved and known by Him. Let's encourage each other today to speak words that glorify and honor the Lord.