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Look, too many young women are buying the idea that gender role responsibility is a "toxic" concept. It's not; it's divinely given, and it's for the benefit of both genders. A thread:
From the Family Proc: "By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children."
If you read this and gag, pause a bit. God is outlining our accountability; what we will be held spiritually accountable for in our families. The tendency is to start immediately assigning TASKS to these roles, and feel overwhelmed, indignant, or consigned to certain tasks.
"I don't want to marry a man who won't change diapers."
"If my wife wants to work, she can work. How else will we make it in this economy?"
"We each have an equal say in everything, from finances to schooling."
Chill. Your. Britches.
"If my wife wants to work, she can work. How else will we make it in this economy?"
"We each have an equal say in everything, from finances to schooling."
Chill. Your. Britches.
Tasks are necessary for life to function comfortably. Changing the lint trap. Driving. Washing. Bringing home bacon. Cooking said bacon. We have an amazing amount of flexibility here, because God does not mandate the tasks in a marriage.
He gave us gifts to accomplish this. Bodies that are complementary to each role. As we focus on gospel principles, Heavenly Father will help us know what works best for our family when dividing up tasks. A hint: it cannot be done successfully with selfishness.
My guideline should be: Will this task (or chore, or errand, or job) help my spouse to fulfill his responsibilities? Is this task helping me accomplish my responsibilities? It's going to look so different for each family, but that attitude will get ya far.
It's going to be difficult to defend gender roles if you assume that it's about who does the dishes. That's basic. It's a lifelong study in sacrifice and fighting your pride, ultimately for the love an eternal family.
