Courtesy of Faithwalk Photography |
Being a part of my parents' home business prepared me for the future like nothing else. Over the years, we have done various home businesses, but the one we have stuck with the longest is our little homestead. We started building our homestead when I was eight or nine. Since I was being educated at home, I saw first hand the dedication and labor that goes into building a lifestyle based on the land. It wasn't (and still isn't) easy, but these are some of the ways God blessed me through my parents' sacrifice.
Knowing I Was Valuable
In homesteading every hand is needed. My parents were counting on me and I knew it. I was an inseparable part of our success as a family. This is so crucial for a child! Responsibility is birthed when you know people are counting on you.
Appreciation For Work
Like any child, I resisted work. I had days (okay, lots of days) when I was lazy with my chores and complained about weeding the garden. But when you have a family homestead, laziness and complaining are treated like the sins they are. And you know what? I'm so grateful now my parents loved me enough not to allow me to have my way. Life is kinder when you learn to be a giver instead of a taker.
Faith And Family Unity
Having a family business has grown our faith in countless ways. That doesn't mean we never struggle with trusting God, but when those days do come, we have story after story of God's provision to chase away our unbelief. Working day in and day out together has also strengthened our relationships with one another. I wouldn't trade those moments failing and achieving with my family for anything.
Courtesy of Faithwalk Photography |
And let me tell you, the fruit is very, very sweet.
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Thanks for the great advice! What an encouragement!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing; now the encouragement goes both ways! :D
ReplyDeleteThis is so good, Kenzi, and very true. I know of some of the challenges you and your family have had and you all are always a blessing to me! It reminds me of the song by Amber Nelon Thompson called Falling. "Father in Heaven, we've seen Your heart redeeming with such love and grace. So even when we see life falling apart, You see life falling in place." God loves us so much that He allows what we may see as pain or hardship to be tools to increase our faith and help us grow strong. You are truly an example of that! I am so proud of you!
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