Lessons from Ancient Israel's Homes

"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builder's labour is in vain." (Psalm 127:1)

In the early days of Israel, most homes were built with simple materials: stones for the foundation and walls and dirt floors. However, some of these homes also had beautiful mosaic tiles in the main rooms, showing that even in ancient times, people sought to beautify their surroundings.

But it's not the physical structure of a home that makes it special. As the saying goes, "home is where the heart is," and it's the people living in the home who create its atmosphere.

In the Bible, we find many examples of the importance of building our lives on a strong foundation. For example, Jesus spoke of two builders saying, “²⁴ “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them; I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: ²⁵ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.

²⁶ “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: ²⁷ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” (Matthew 7:24-27)

Likewise, Proverbs 14:1 says, "The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down." This verse reminds us that we have a responsibility to create a home environment that is nurturing and supportive for ourselves and our loved ones.

So how can we build a home environment that is nurturing and supportive in our homes? Here are a few practical principles to consider. I believe if you put them into practice, you will see major changes in your home.

1.Prioritise relationships

At the end of the day, it's the people in our lives who matter the most. We need to invest time and energy into our relationships with our spouses, children, and other family members. Proverbs 24:3-4 says, "By wisdom, a house is built, and through understanding, it is established; through knowledge, its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." True wisdom starts with valuing the people around us.

2.Cultivate an atmosphere of love and grace

Forgiveness, patience, and kindness are essential ingredients for a healthy home. Ephesians 4:2-3 says, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." These qualities are not always easy to practice, but they can transform our homes into places of healing and restoration.

3.Create beauty and order

While it's not the most important aspect of a home, there's something to be said for creating a space that is aesthetically pleasing and well-organized. This can involve simple touches like fresh flowers or artwork or a little larger projects like getting your house rid of unnecessary junk. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." By bringing beauty into our homes, we can reflect God's creativity and love of beauty.

4.Build a culture of faith

Regular family prayer, personal time of worship, and study of the word of God can help you and your family grow closer to God and each other. Joshua 24:15 says, "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." By making faith a priority in your home, you can build a foundation that lasts beyond this lifetime.

By adopting these simple yet practical principles, we can create a home that is truly a sanctuary for ourselves and others.

Lessons from Ancient Israel's Homes

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