As we discuss ways to manage our selves and our households well, I want to spend a few minutes on words of warning. As humans, when we strive for excellence, it can be easy to get caught up in the achievement itself (or lack thereof).

We all too often struggle with a skewed perspective. We have to do and be “good enough.” Martin Luther described it this way:

This pernicious opinion of the law, that it justifies and makes righteous before God, is so deeply rooted in man’s reason, and all mankind so wrapped up in it, that they can hardly get out; yea, I myself, have now preached the gospel nearly 20 years, and have been exercised in the same daily, by reading and writing, so that I may well seem to be rid of this wicked opinion; yet, notwithstanding, I now and then feel this old filth cleave to my heart, whereby it comes to pass that I would willingly have so to do with God, that I would bring something with myself, because of which he should give me his grace.

Sisters, you are children of God your Father. In Christ, you are secure and have no need to earn your position or measure up. When you fail in your efforts to manage your household well, all that is at stake is the cup of milk spilt. That is it. Your salvation and identity are not at risk. God’s desire for you is that you serve your family well. And He has already provided all you need for godliness (II Peter 1:3-4). You have what you need! Your efforts, goals, plans and obedience are the outcome of an end already achieved by Him. You are free to live exultingly dependent on His power and grace at work in you.

No matter where you are on the spectrum — looking forward, with your ducks self-righteously in a row (you assume), or wandering, distracted and discouraged with ducklings far afield — I encourage you to lift your eyes. Live as a fully mature child. Your every minute is not allotted to assigned tasks to be completed. Your responsibilities are yours to manage, thriving through the strength God provides. Live in the light of your adoption as a daughter of God.

As a Christian, you are also a vital part of the body of Christ, the church. You will benefit from partnering with your sisters as you grow together (Ephesians 4:16) in Christlikeness. We are all in this together. There is beauty in relying on each other for encouragement and wisdom and accountability. We glorify God as we embrace His plan for His people. Live as a child of God in the body of Christ.