One of the birds that returns early in spring is the robin. I get so much enjoyment watching their little antics. Since my bird bath is no longer frozen, they have also made this a regular stopping point. For several mornings, mama and papa robin took their baths, and fluffed their feathers dry. But then they surprised me. They reached into the water with their beaks and pulled out wet leaves one at a time. They would shake it and toss most of them onto my patio, until they found the right one, and then fly off with it in their beak–I’m sure to continue making their new nest. It just seemed they were being very particular with what they wanted to use in forming their nest.

We need to be careful, too, as to what and how we are building our “nest.” Last week I had the privilege of being on a panel for our “Women of Grace” program at our church. One of the questions we were asked was: “What are some practical ways woman can build her home?” Here are the things I shared (these can also be for men).

Be a godly example – Don’t be argumentative (with spouse or children) – Use words seasoned with grace (again with spouse and children) – Don’t condemn a child when he has failed at something (let them learn through their mistakes or failures, but never call them “a failure” – Hug your children (let them know they are loved) – Encourage the use of their talents – Don’t have “favorites” – Don’t give them everything they want or ask for – Eat together as a family (no cell phones) – Pray together, attend church together, and have devotions together – Pray for their salvation (even before they are born) – Pray for their future mates – Play together (have fun!).

The “family” is being attacked in so many ways. We need homes whose foundation is built on the Lord Jesus Christ ( The rock!).