“It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home.” Proverbs 25:24 NLT

We’ve all heard it:  “If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” That saying begs the question, “Who made Mama mad?!” Was it the husband who still did not get the chore done that he was reminded about only 20 times before? Was it the child who had an utter meltdown in the middle of the mall because she couldn’t have a toy that she would probably break in an hour? Or, was it the dog who chewed Mama’s new stiletto? It certainly couldn’t have been Mama…or could it? 

The only part of the culture in your home that you can change is the part that you create. No, it may not be your exclusive responsibility to make those around you live a happy life, but is your atmosphere inhospitable to their growth, their trying, their happy? Play your part in creating a happy life for those around you by creating a positive atmosphere with your words, tone, body language, and attitude. 

Here’s a simple test to see where you stand. What 3-5 words would you use to describe the culture and atmosphere in your home? 

1) _______ 2) _______ 3) _______

Now, ask yourself, would you want to stay there? If your home were a 5-star hotel that boasted about 1, 2, & 3, would you be writing a 5-star review or demanding your money back? If it’s the latter, focus on where you need to change instead of focusing on anyone else. Focus specifically on one thing, and hammer on it until it is actually changed. 

Want more happy? This blog was adapted from Happy Anyway by Adrienne Cooley. Visit the “Buy a Happy” page to own this six week devotional that doubles as a small group curriculum.