Starting Chores Over

"In our culture, with its “let children be children philosophy,” it is easy to believe we are doing our children a disservice by expecting them to have responsibility as they are growing up. In reality, the opposite is true. If we choose not to give our children chores and teach them to accomplish them well, we are handicapping our children for their futures as adults. There are a multitude of long-term benefits our children will realize from the disciplines and skills they will develop as a result of chore responsibilities."   -Terri Maxwell, Mom's Corner, August 2005

I have been reading some of Teri Maxwell's writing and articles from her website Titus2.com.  I just recently purchased a book by her that I am looking forward to reading and am hoping is shipped quickly.  I have scoured the web looking for some inspiration for homeschooling and for my home being my ministry and my mission field.  I know this is where God has placed me, I just like to read and hear from others with the same or similar callings. 

I read an article about children and chores written by Mrs. Maxwell, and I realized how badly I have been in this area.  I am far from consistent.  In fact, the stress level of the entire house and all five children (plus the husband) is usually on me alone.  I don't react well when I am stressed.  I let anger build and I either snap or just let things slide that shouldn't slide.

I know, deep in my heart, that chores are important.  I also know that I myself haven't been the best example.  I often feel like I am going 100 mph just trying to do all the different things that need done or that I want done.   I feel I have added quite a bit of work so we can save money.  I've added a garden.  I line dry clothes.  I plan to can the harvest of my garden.  More and more, to save money, I find myself busier and busier.  I desperately want a dishwasher cause dishes seem to be my nemesis.  They are always there.  I can wash and wash, and I'll move on to another task.  When I return, more dishes are back in the sink.  I could spend all day doing nothing but dishes and laundry, and still never be done!


I've come to the conclusion that, for my sanity, the children have to take more responsibility.  I can not homeschool and do ministry at church if I don't get more help in my home.  I have accepted that I am not Superwoman.  I am not doing my children any favors by allowing them to go visit with friends and play on the computer and watch movies, even acceptable movies, if they don't know how to work.


Chore lists haven't worked for me in the past.  We begin them, but then life gets in the way.  I am not consistent.  I take the blame for this.  Luckily for me the Lord is a Lord of new mercies every day.  I can begin again.  My first step is to pray.  In my own strength I will fail every time.