Cardamom's Pod

Through the years, in the process of learning how to schedule our family, I have tried many different things.  I have asked friends to share their schedules with me so I can glean ideas.  I’ve bought scheduling books, and looked things up on the internet.  I’ve fussed and fumed, scribbled on hundreds of sheets of paper, made computer charts – I’m sure you can imagine!

I’m still learning, but there is one “inside tip” that has become my first step when thinking about developing/tweaking a schedule.

PRAYER

Before you start – pray and ask for wisdom from God, who gives it liberally. (James 1:5)

When your proposed schedule is in pieces, either in your head or on your table; when you have tackled it for hours and it turns into a big plate of mental spaghetti – put it away and PRAY.

When you begin to fuss and fume, feeling like you will go nuts if you can’t get this schedule thing together – throw your hands up to the Lord and admit that you CANNOT do this in your own strength, and ask for His.  He promises that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Phil. 4:13)

When you do this – get ready!  Keep a notebook handy because ideas will seemingly come out of nowhere.  I’ve had them pop into my head while driving, and have recited them to my children so I’d remember to write them down when I get home.  I’ve been talking with friends and they’ve said something so profound that wrapped up several loose ends I’d given up on trying to tie.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding:
In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5,6

This definitely works for me!