Most of my tablecloths have a pretty side and a not so pretty side. If I sit down to eat with my family and notice that I put the tablecloth on wrong side up, I think, “Oops. Oh well, it’s just my family.” I’m a lot more careful when we have guests. I make sure they only see the pretty side. Shame on me. Of course I’m not really talking about tablecloths. I’m talking about those times when I act prettier for others than I do for my own dear family.
Shame on me when I snap in irritation at my husband or children. I would never dream of snapping at a neighbor or church member lest they think I’m unpleasant to be around.
Shame on me when I make my impatience obvious to my family but with everyone else I cover it up with a smile.
Shame on me when I use harsher words with my family to make a point but choose my words more carefully and tenderly with friends.
Shame on me when I roll my eyes when my husband asks me to do something for him but act all eager to please when others do the same.
My family deserves my prettier side. I do have one and I know how to display it when I think it matters. Why would I rob the ones who matter most of sweetness but go to great lengths to brighten up for everyone else? I prove my love for my family when I care enough to give them the best side of me.
Prayer for Today: May I daily cherish my family, Lord, by showing them the same grace and honor I extend to others.
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Life and Favor (Job 10:12) 
If only we all could find that pettier side in ourselves and put our best side forward not only to our family and friends but even to those that we don’t feel quite so friendly toward then we would be showing the side that Christ would have us to share. Great article by the way really enjoyed it as always . Ken Bagwell
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Ouch, ouch, ouch Kathy!!! This had me groaning out loud. “For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want.” Romans 7:19
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Well said, sweet friend! Have to often remind myself of this lesson!
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