Are you too busy making your life "better" that you're forgetting to live?

I was rereading some of my older posts and I was really convicted by this timely reminder. I decided to re-post it today and I pray that you are as encouraged as I was.

I realized some things this week while on a mini spur of the moment vacation. I love it when God takes ordinary opportunities and teaches me a lesson through them.

The kids and I left Monday and headed for the lake to meet my Dad and Stepmom who had been down there since Friday. We intended to stay Monday afternoon and evening and come back later on Tuesday afternoon. (dh was out of town on business) We were having such a good time that we all decided to stay an extra day and didn't come back until today. It kind of struck me today that sometimes I get so caught up in trying to make the healthiest foods or doing things around the house that are supposed to be "better" for us, that it takes up so much of my time and energy that I don't have time to actually live my life. What good is a healthier diet if it causes me to be too busy to play with my kids? What good is a clean house if it causes me to be irritable toward my husband? Does making biscuits from scratch make enough difference that I should feel guilty if we just pop open a can of them instead?  I know it is important to eat as healthy as we can, but it isn't worth losing my joy. I know that having a clean home is important and being a good steward, but it is not my top priority.  I know I am responsible for my home and my children and should do the best I can for both, but sometimes that means opening a box of cereal for breakfast, having a bologna sandwich on store bought bread for lunch and a frozen pizza for dinner so that I have time to take joy in my children, my husband and my home.  I encourage you to do the best you can, but PLEASE do not feel guilty during those times when you choose the "less healthy" way. If you don't have time to live your life, I challenge you to re-examine your priorities.

Another thing I realized while camping this week, I can make do with alot less stuff! However, I think I will save that for another post. Just ponder on my thoughts above for now.

Blessings,

Rashel