I allow myself to be consumed too often.

Oh, sometimes it’s homeschooling my four treasures—reading, coaching the grueling revision process, praying while some labor over math. Sometimes it’s writing—revising my first novel, finishing my second, researching future ventures. This month, it’s more often been menu-planning and cooking.

It’s the word consumed that is the glaring red flag. Moderation is the key.

The only thing that ought to consume my time, my mind, my heart, and my life is my deep love for Christ. Matthew 6:33 promises that when I seek Him first, and His righteousness, everything else will be added to me. Priorities fall in line, I am filled to overflowing for the tasks ahead, and I move through life in obedience to Him.

That’s what I’m after. And my kids notice when I’m doing well with it. They also see when I’m flailing and sinking.

Early in the New Year, BWIMH and I prayerfully decided to make some changes in our household: simplifying, spending less and giving more, planning ahead to enjoy healthier home-cooked meals, and getting the new routines down. At first, consumed was the word of the day. I apologize for the unannounced blog-posting sabbatical, but there it is.

No longer, though. Everyone is on board, and we’re flourishing. We’re not a well-oiled machine, but I’m not foolish enough to expect that. Our goals are to rejoice in our Foundation, become familiar with our new parameters, and maintain a flexible consistency—all as we offer ourselves to Christ. Our faith in Christ is growing, and the conversations we’re sharing around the dinner table make every adjustment worthwhile. There’s no better way to teach self-discipline than to model it.

I believe we’ve adjusted well enough for me to revisit the blogosphere. I’ll pick back up with the Missions series next week. In the meantime, check out For Readers on the sidebar and enjoy a review. More to come in the not-too-distant future . . .