Roles - Emily

I have to say that I couldn't agree more with what Ann just shared about the world (the devil) lying to us! Lies are all over the place and unless we are really seeking out the Truth and God's hand in things we automatically just believe and follow lies. This book really helps bring me to a place of understanding our extreme need for God in order to get this stuff "right".

Yes, I did kiss my husband first (before he was my husband) and I have tried to 'wear the pants' in areas where I think things aren't going the way they should be. But it's not about who can do the job better, it's about who was designed to do it!! It can be hard to back off and let him be in charge of certain areas but it gives God much more room to work in both of us. I am learning patience and trust and it helps hubby have a better understanding of his position of leadership. When I back off and give things to God, He allows me to see where/what He wants to work on and gives many avenues for prayer. Our men have their own set of fears and faults and hang ups but they won't be able to work on them if we are stomping on them and saying "I'll just do it!" Opening my eyes to see these things draws me to my knees even more of behalf of him.

And I would honestly have to say that my designed role is more than enough to keep me occupied without trying to take on hubby responsibilities too. We are designed relationally and that takes time and energy and balance. I love to encourage and pray for others but I can't do that well if I'm not willing to invest time in knowing them and energy into reaching out. And keeping the household, hello! This is work, and way more than just our physical surroundings, but the heart of our home is in our hands. We are the rudder that guides the ship here. So often our attitudes and demeanor set the tone for the day. So sometimes when I 'just wanna be mad or cranky or have an off day' and I'm not allowed to get away with it, I need to remember that my composition (or lack of) has a ripple effect in those around me.

Hubby and I can seem so opposite in some areas and I wonder what on earth we were thinking... but then I remember that we are together for a reason with the intention of balancing one another for His kingdom purposes. I love on page 130 where Mary says "The alongside part is extremely important. The purpose of a woman helping a man isn't about exalting the man. It's not about him. Her help contributes to both of them achieving a greater, nobler, eternal purpose that is far bigger and more significant to their own existence....." I couldn't have said it better!! This life is SO not about us!! Our marriages are not about us! More importantly, it's about what God wants to do in and through us.

The family unit is so powerful!! Why do you think the Devil has had such an attack on it over all this time?? When man and wife can come together in unity fully devoted to God's purpose and power.... look out! I want this. I want us to be a mighty force for God in the lives of the lost. With God's help we'll get there. Satan uses so many things to keep us distracted and burdened it's just ridiculous. Even good things, he can twist and inflate them to consume our thinking and energies.

Overall, stepping outside my designed role happens most when I am being utterly selfish and not seeking the Lord. On page 133 Mary says "Roles speak to who we are more than they speak to what we do"  Lord, make me over from the inside out to be who You have designed me to be for Your purposes.