In researching an article about the correlation between mess and stress, I thought about the emotional clutter I needed to pack up. Little knick knacks of hurt and resentment I keep around like souvenirs from a vacation. When I feel sad or neglected, I can go to that shelf in my mind and say, See, this was the time I thought no one cared. I picked up this thing at the time someone wrongly accused me. This one reminds of that woman who spoke harshly to me. It’s time to pack up the clutter!
Mess is stress
What mess is causing your stress? Your home is a haven and should be the place you relax and recharge. Time spent in cleaning, organizing, and clearing out will be worth every moment and effort. Get the family involved. Make it an opportunity to sprinkle in some community service by donating things to charity. Keep only items that nurture happy memories and put a smile on your face. Believe me, you will feel lighter and more carefree with every load. Every morning before you leave the house, have a ‘pick up the stuff’ time, maybe just 15 minutes. You can return home to a tidy, peaceful space.
Take care of your emotional clutter by clearing out a closet to create a prayer and meditation space just for you. Small table and comfy chair? Scented candle? Lots of pillows? Note board to post your favorite verses and gratitude notes? I found ideas on Pinterest.
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
So don’t be dismayed when the wicked grow rich and their homes become ever more splendid. For when they die, they take nothing with them. Their wealth will not follow them into the grave.
Psalms 49:16-17
[Wisdom says] Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it.
Proverbs 8:10-11
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