duties

Sometimes responsibilities stink. For the last several months i have had a grumbling attitude about the random responsibilities of keeping up with our stuff. Isn't it amazing how the more stuff you have the more time it takes to keep up with it... i guess that is another blog though. The whole point is i was grumbling.... a lot...but all the "Seize the Day" fun we are doing really convicted me of my attitude and is helping me to joyful do my duties.

Reading God's word helps me to think like He does... these scriptures in particular and some of the fun things we are doing have helped me get my attitude in check and be diligent about seizing the day. Read below if you or your family needs a little responsibility pep talk.

Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Ephesians 6:7, Colossians 3:23

Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Romans 12:11

Work hard and become a leader, be lazy and become a slave. Proverbs 12:24

Finishing is better than starting patience is better that pride. Ecclesiastes 7:8

RESPONSIBILITY CHARTS:

We made the nifty magnetic "Responsibility Charts" so we can share responsibilities. Notice Elijah has been promoted to watering plants and feeding worms. The setting the table didn't work out so well. Jonathan folded 5 loads of laundry the other night during the game!! :) I can't tell you how giddy that made me. Jeriah hasn't notice the chart yet :)... maybe next year. The verses above are on each of our charts. These charts are a great way to teach your little ones these verses.

Reading them daily has been reminding me who i am doing it all for... like a gift for God... it is hard to complain when it is a gift for the God who created the universe and gave His son so that we could live forgiven and forever with Him... yeah... yikes... unthankful child i am!

You will need: 3 or 4 sheets of Magnetic Paper (you can make a paper chart but magnets last longer and you waist less paper because it is static), Computer, Printer, Scissors

How to: On any writing program on your computer (I used Microsoft publisher) pull up a blank 8.5x11 paper. Insert a picture of each family member so each one has a chart. Make a section for “To Do” and “Done”. Then in a different colored boxes write regular weekly chore or responsibilities (add some fun ones... i made the fun ones a different color.. it helps them to learn to do everything for Him). Ex: Wash Dishes, Wipe tables, Vacuum or Sweep Floors, Make beds, art project, feed the worms, etc. After you print them cut them out place them on your fridge or a place where all can see.

Take time to introduce the chart to your family talking about the verses that we need to work as we are doing it for God, work enthusiastically and finish. As each child accomplished his or her responsibility take time to review a verse and praise them for their hard work. Each day have new responsibilities on the chart.

SEIZE THE DAY CALENDAR

Verse: This is the day that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

You will need: 2 sheets of Magnetic Paper, Computer, Printer, Scissors, sticky clear paper, dry erase marker.

Introducing the calendar is a great way to teach your little ones about planning. It gives them things to look forward to as well... and just lets you know what is going on along with the rest of the fam. In any computer program start with a blank sheet of paper. I made the little symbols to stick on the different days because visuals are good for my 3 year old. I made separate magnets for the month titles so i can just change out the title. After you print the main calendar carefully and slowly place the clear sticky paper over it while smoothing it out and cut access sticky paper off. Then it is ready to write some dates or events.

If you want me to email you my publisher templates just let me know below and i can email you... then you can insert your pics or change as you like.

CHORE RACE:

Verse: Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Time: depends

You will need: Some chores that need to be done.

As your child does a task do some work yourself and see who can finish first. Example: As your child picks up toys at the ends of the day you wash the dishes and see who finished first. Read the verse before you start the race and explain how to complete the task. I turn on some of my Dance Praise Playlist and we go at it... so much fun for everyone... and we worship God while we are doing it.