Have you ever cleaned house, washed the dishes, cooked a meal, or done any other chore and felt unappreciated? I think everyone has felt that way at some time—especially mothers.

During visits with some of our Amish friends I’ve noticed that their chores were done without complaint or question. I’m also aware of how the Amish use their time of working to visit with anyone who might be helping them. In fact, their work becomes a time of socializing, making it seem more enjoyable. However, even tasks done alone can be satisfying. Cleaning the house, doing dishes, and washing clothes can be looked upon with a sense of gratification, knowing you’ve done your best.

Whenever I’m doing a job I’d rather not do, and even if I feel unappreciated, I remind myself what God’s Word says in Colossians 3:23 (KJV): “And whatever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Maybe the reason my Amish friends don’t complain about the work they are required to do is because they’re doing it as unto the Lord.

Here is my prayer for this week: Lord, as I go about my work, help me remember to do all my chores as if I’m doing them for You.

A few Sundays ago we sang some hymns in church that took me back to my spiritual roots and made me appreciate the people who had written those meaningful hymns. Hardly a sermon is preached during an Amish church service without some mention of the Plain People’s forefathers who offered their lives as martyrs many years ago. I believe remembering what their ancestors went through helps to strengthen their faith.

It’s important for us to remember our religious roots and look to the past when we need a reminder of how Christianity was born. It will make us pause and be thankful for the religious freedom we enjoy in a world so torn. It’s also good to look to the future with faith and anticipation of what God is going to do. Psalm 90:1-2 (NIV) reminds us: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

Is there a special hymn or verse of scripture calling you to remember your spiritual roots? It’s good to reflect on memories with deep meaning that will last. It’s even better to open your heart and let God renew your spirit as you follow Him for the rest of your days.

It seems like there are always so many things to pray about, and my list gets longer and longer. Prayer is really nothing more than making our requests known to God. It’s our duty as Christians to pray – not only for ourselves, but for others as well. I am thankful that I can pray any time of the day or night. I’m also thankful that He always hears my prayers.

I remember once when I was a child and a Sunday school teacher told the class that even though some of our prayers may not be answered in the way we would like, God answers all prayers, according to His will. Sometimes He says yes. Sometimes He says no. Sometimes we just have to wait.

In I Thessalonians 5:17 we are told to pray without ceasing. We should never quit praying, because there is power in prayer. Every time we pray, God hears. When we see Him answering prayers and meeting our needs, our faith is strengthened. Is there someone you should be praying for today? Have you thanked God in advance for answering your prayers?