“Mom, can you find my shoe?” “Honey, can I bring a friend home for dinner?” “My dear friend, can you fill in for me on Sunday?” “Mom, I don’t want to do my math page today!” These are all examples of things I hear often. Some days I feel like I am caught in a whirlwind of demands. My family and friends don’t mean to be demanding, they just need my help in some way, but when I feel overwhelmed, hearing these simple questions, can send me into a frenzy.

Do you ever feel this way? Like life is a crazy rollercoaster ride? Your trying to be a loving wife, a patient mom, a temperate teacher, and good friend, but you desperately need time off for a break. Your head is spinning, your heart is pounding and you feel like screaming at the top of your lungs. Well, I have been there. When I step back and really look at things I realize what is going on. I haven’t spent time with Jesus. I haven’t gotten my daily time to sit in his presence and soak up his strength so I am capable of doing what needs to be done.

As a mom, wife, friend, teacher, and writer, I know that I am not able to do anything well unless I am plugged into my lifeline. Jesus makes all the difference doesn’t he? He gives us peace in the midst of turmoil, and comfort when we are hurting. He bestows grace when we fail, and lavishes love on us when we feel alone. He gives us strength when we feel weak, and grants us mercy when we deserve punishment. How can we forget to spend time with him?

Each morning we need to resolve to take time to spend time with our loving Savior. Our priorities must be Jesus first, then others, then ourselves. Once we have those in the right order, things begin to fall into place. When our spirit is full of life, that only God can give, we are able to accomplish all our tasks. We are able to do our duties with joy and ease instead of dread and misery. Our lives begin to feel rewarding again. Christ gives us a new perspective on every detail of our days. Our children, husbands, and friends will see a change in our attitudes. We will find joy in everyday tasks.

“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart.” We have all sung this song during children’s church haven’t we? It was one of those songs we would actually sing frequently at our church. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I really thought about the words of this song. As a child I would just sing the lyrics as instructed by our teachers, but I don’t think I really meant what I was singing at all. As an adult, I didn’t realize where true joy came from until I had a real relationship with my Lord. Joy comes from the Lord and it is our strength. It allows us to serve him and our families with gladness.

Today, I encourage you to make a list of your priorities. Purpose to put God first in your life, and see what a difference it will make. It can bring life and joy back to your homes and families.