1. A PLACE TO SLEEP

God designed our bodies to need sleep. Quality sleep helps the brain function properly, promotes the body’s pituitary gland to release hormones for growing and healing, and builds up the immune system to fight inflammation and infections. Sleep deficiency may increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, hormone imbalance, learning difficulties and emotional stress. Design your bedroom for sleep.

Edit belongings and behaviors that keep you awake: a television, computer, fragranced candles and food and caffeinated drinks. Choose calm, peaceful colors, comfy soft bedding and blackout window coverings.

2. A PLACE TO BATHE

Submerging your body in warm bath water may help regulate body temperature, improve breathing, reduce pain and inflammation, and decrease stress. Baths may also help balance your hormones and cortisol levels. But be sure not to overdo it: Keep water temp comfortable, limit bath time and only use bathing products safe for your skin type. Check with your physician if you need advice on bathing, especially if you have sensitive skin or are under medical care.

3. A PLACE TO TEACH

Parents are a child’s first teachers for good reason. God entrusted the responsibility for raising and educating children on parents, not schools, by making mothers and fathers the ultimate overseers of all education. This may mean learning occurs at home or at Christian or public schools, but in all cases, parents need to have an active and vigilant knowledge of what their children are taught. Ask for lesson plans and all books and materials in advance and study them. Take action if you don’t agree with an unbiblical lesson plan. Counter worldly instruction by teaching God’s truths in your home.

4. A PLACE TO NURTURE

God placed the responsibility of training up children “in the way that they should go” on their parents (Proverbs 22:6). Start early showing your baby that you love God and her/ him through your Christ-like example. Express your faith through singing, storytelling, prayer and worship. Make your home a safe place, where you can guard your child’s innocent heart. Take this responsibly seriously by scrutinizing toys, books and especially cartoons to be sure they offer age-appropriate, godly messaging that meets your approval.

5. A PLACE TO BE FED

In the Bible, food and sharing it play important roles in building relationships. Make your kitchen a happy place to hang out with friends and family. First and foremost, keep it clean and limit countertop items to a few, eye-pleasing accessories and displays.