Don't jump to conclusions

Christian women work outside the home for many and varied reasons. However, whenever this is discussed on blogs, I often read the following comments:

“we are doing it tough on one income, so why can’t you do it to”

“the Lord always provide”

I would like to address both of these comments.

The problem with Blogland is that we don’t really know the situation of others, however, based on very little, some jump to conclusions that can be wrong.  Living on one income may work for one family but that doesn’t mean it will work for another (its wrong to assume "one-size-fits-all"). It would be wonderful if some didn't jump to conclusions and instead be a little more understand of other family situations. It can be upsetting to those who are doing their very best for their families (particularly single mothers) and have done all the maths and know what the situation is. Most Christian women aren’t working to create a high-powered career, trying to make loads of money, nor are they so consumed by their career that they neglect their families or following some "feminist" lie—they work because they have been asked to do so and are doing a fantastic job. They should be applauded for their hard work and not treated as if they don't have a clue or being ungodly (sinful). 

Quite right, a family can live on a small income, but this isn’t a competition of who can live on the least amount of dollars. Whilst it is great to share tips and ideas of smart-living (we can all learn something), being boastful about living on a low income (or surviving on $20 for a week) is quite a different story. Those families who have decided that mum needs a paying job aren't making those decisions lightly, with lack of thought or pray.  

The bible is very clear when it comes to financial matters and it is this advice we need to follow when making any decision when it comes to money or work:

—make wise decisions through prayer

—be controlled
—live within our means, not wasting the resources God has provided

—work hard and diligently

—keep debt to a minimum

—share

—be generous to others and open our hearts to others 

But most importantly don’t go out to work just to make money for the sake of creating wealth (hoarding) as the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Don't go about earning lots of money just so you can own many possessions or take grand holidays, as this takes us away from the Lord where our focus needs to be (Luke 12:15). Only work outside the home if you have looked careful at your personal situation; the age of your children (my are now adults), your husbands needs, your caring responsibilities with your ageing parents and your home etc...  

If your family does require two-incomes (or you are a single parent, or perhaps your husband is no longer working), take these things into consideration when making the decision. Don't make the decision lightly. Make that decision based on the Word of God and through prayer and certainly not what other bloggers might say or based on their situation.

God does provide in so many ways but that doesn’t mean we can sit back with unpaid bills and say; “God will sort that problem out”. God gives us all talents and gifts (and the energy) to work out how to do this best and that may include working outside the home (or setting up a home based business). He has given me the skills  I need to do the job I have (and provided the job with hours that don't impact on my family), but occasionally taps me on the shoulder to reminds me to follow His plan and not mine.  A family should never live with their hand out “waiting to see what the Lord will deliver”, we do need to take responsibility and use the gifts that God has provided us with (they shouldn't be wasted).  But most importantly, do all things to glorify God and give thanks to all that He has provides, including those talents he has given us. 

And remember — trust in the Lord for words of wisdom. God never lets you down, even if it means getting up in the morning and going off to work. God is with you 24/7 and as long as you follow His plan, amazing things will happen. 

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