Key scriptures:
Proverbs 31:10-31, Titus 2:3-5, 1 Timothy 5:14, Proverbs 14:1, 1 Peter 3:1-6, Ephesians 5:22-24 and Proverbs 31:27
Proverbs 31 offers a timeless and meaningful illustration for womanhood for women aspiring to live according to the Christian faith. These verses, along with so many inspirational stories such as those of Sarah, Deborah and Ruth help ground us in the knowledge that God created women with so much value, dignity and purpose. We also see that women have many different roles and responsibilities, including homemaking.
Are all women really called to be Homemakers?
In Titus, older women are encouraged to set a good example for younger women, teaching them to be “self-controlled, pure, working at home (homemakers), kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.” (Titus 2:5) This verse is often used to set homemaking as the highest calling for women. But as we see throughout the Bible, not all women are called to be homemakers according to our cultural traditions. I believe this verse is really calling all women to prioritize their home – managing our homes well, and using our resourcefulness, industriousness and other abilities to build up our homes for God’s glory and the well-being of our families.
So how will you know if you’re called to be a homemaker in the traditional sense? Well, it’s likely not your calling if every aspect of the role revolves around you: your wants and gains as well as what pleases or displeases you. If everything about homemaking seems designed around satisfying these selfish ambitions – what you like or don’t like – or if you are entering it solely for its “benefits” like having an excuse to be to lazy, rather than to please God, then you may not have the right perspective. But those truly called to this role may initially dread it, or fight it like me. Yet you know this role has nothing to do with you; God already gave grace for it to be a fulfilling calling. Though you will face difficulties along the way, know that God called you for something bigger than just yourself that ultimately brings Him glory!
So what does surrender look like as a Homemaker?
I’ve learned that surrendering to God as a homemaker requires acknowledging that our abilities and wisdom are limited. Through prayer, studying Scripture, and cultivating an intimate relationship with Him we can invite His wisdom into every aspect of homemaking – decision-making, problem-solving and managing our households all becomes easier when we allow God to guide our decisions. Being open to God’s will means seeing how the role of homemaker extends far beyond mere chores and duties. It is really about changing lives, building relationships, and showing His love through your actions. As homemakers, our role is crucial in providing our families with a comfortable and nurturing atmosphere. This includes caring for our children, making our homes a place where they can flourish and feel secure. We should also see homemaking as a means of supporting our husbands, setting realistic expectations on how much he really can help out, and not feeling regret when he falls short.
Lastly, we have greater flexibility in demonstrating the value of hospitality toward others, being able to welcome visitors into our homes throughout the day. As much as it’s essential that homemakers give themselves over to God as a form of service, finding balance in your responsibilities is just as crucial. Biblical homemaking doesn’t entail abandoning self-care or forgoing your personal interests – God wants for you to find joy, rest, and fulfillment across every area of your life – so seek His advice when setting healthy boundaries or prioritizing well-being, along with pursuing interests which align with His will. Though you will face difficulties along the way, know that God called you for something bigger than just yourself that ultimately brings Him glory!
Did you enjoy this series? Be sure to ready Part 1 and Part 2 of this Surrender Series. Do you believe you’ve been called to focus more on the home?
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