I haven’t been part of a women’s Bible study in years. And I really miss it. Which is why I told my husband, “This year, things are going to be different. I’m going to make it a priority. I want to do this. I need to do this.”
So I signed up for a Tuesday night study and faithfully attended the first week. I even had to sign a “commitment” sheet and declared I would do my best to achieve regular attendance.
The second week, I was out of town on business.
The third week, I looked at the evening calendar and quickly realized I would have to hire a babysitter or clone myself in order to get three kids to three different evening events.
So I said to my husband, “I think I’m going to drop out of Bible study, what do you think?”
Part of me wanted him to tell me I had to quit. That signing up for another evening event is stupid. That hiring a babysitter to run the kids around in the evenings is a foolish use of our resources. And that being with the kids right now is the better use of my time.
But he didn’t.
He responded, “Do whatever you think is best.” (It’s called reverse psychology -- and it gets me every time.)
Great, I actually have to make this decision myself. I can’t blame him for holding me back.
I didn’t want to drop out. I’m not a quitter, but I just can’t justify the evenings away from my family during this busy season of motherhood. Can anyone relate?
Maybe next year.
Does this season of life have you making some hard personal choices?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
7 comments:
Ha ha, oh yes indeed! My devotional this morning was about prioritizing my time, in fact. I'm struggling to find the balance between seizing new opportunites and a busy job and home life. Wish I could tell you it gets easier, but... :).
Susan, thanks for your honesty in this post. I've really struggled with the same thing, and then deal with the feeling of guilt. And I only have 2 kids! :) But this is a season of life. Although many things may be "good," it just may not be good timing. When the kids are grown and out of the house, I'll have lots more time to attend women's Bible studies. But for now, being home with my family is my priority. But it's still a hard decision!
Absolutely. Every season does.
~ Wendy
I can relate. For me, my bible study issue is that I want more than a woman's bible study has to offer. I am wanting to take a class or two at a seminary.
Nope. Our weekly Bible Study on Wednesday nights is the only time of the week that I get to spend with my friends. It keeps us sane and focused on our families and our Bibles. We are lucky that we all have supportive husbands who would do whatever it takes to let us have this time together for study and reflection (and dinner!)
These are some great comments - and I really got an earful on my FB page. I'm going to do a follow-up post and talk about some solutions!
It sounds like a virtual Bible Study would be a good solution for you. I have 3 young children as well, so I can relate.
Post a Comment