I have seen many different versions of 1 Cor. 13 -- different Bible translations, and different people's interpretations. I found this one in a book I am reading, and found it to be really helpful to me at this season of my life.
"If I keep my house immaculately clean, am envied by all for my interior decorating, but do not show love in my family -- I'm just another housewife.
If I'm always producing lovely things -- sewing, art, macrame; if I always look attractive, and speak intelligently, but am not loving, to my family -- I am nothing.
If I'm too busy in community affairs, teach Sunday school, and drive in the carpool, but fail to give adequate love to my family -- I am nothing.
Love changes diapers, cleans up messes, and ties shoes -- over and over again.
Love is kind, though tired and frazzled.
Love doesn't envy another wife -- one whose children are "spaced" better, or in school so she has time to pursue her own interests.
Love doesn't try to impress others with my abilities or knowledge as a mother.
Love doesn't scream at the kids.
Love doesn't feel cheated because I didn't get to do what I wanted to do today -- sew, read, soak in a hot tub.
Love doesn't lose my temper easily.
Love doesn't assume that my children are being naughty just because their noise level is irritating.
Love doesn't rejoice when other people's children misbehave and make mine look good. Love is genuinely happy when others are honored by their children."
~~ Dear Lord, Thank you for your unfailing love that you give to me so freely. Help me to CHOOSE to love everyday! To have YOUR love for others, and to impress that upon my children's hearts! ~~
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Wow Jaime- I love that, thanks for posting that!
ReplyDeleteThis is great! What book did you find it in?
ReplyDeleteIt's from an older book called "A Mother's Heart" by Jean Fleming. It's a short little book, filled with lots of great advice to Christian moms!
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