Joyful Homemaking

Work and rest aren’t enemies—they’re divine gifts perfectly balanced by God’s design. But in today’s hustle culture, we often see work as burdensome and rest as laziness. What if everything you thought about these rhythms was flipped? What if your daily chores, caregiving, and even postpartum recovery held a higher purpose—an act of worship and responsibility, woven into the fabric of faith? In this heartfelt episode, Ashley and Marissa share profound insights from scripture and real life about how work and rest are meant to coexist in harmony. You’ll discover how Genesis reveals work as part of God’s original good creation, and how modern routines can be transformed when viewed through a biblical lens. They break down:The biblical foundation of work before and after the fall, emphasizing that work is part of God’s good design.Practical ways to shift your mindset, seeing mundane daily tasks as meaningful offerings to the Lord.How to teach children responsibility and diligence while nurturing their joy and play.The importance of rhythms in daily life—how work and rest aren’t opposites but complementary gifts.The theological and practical significance of seasons of rest—postpartum, recovery, and sabbath—and how they prepare us for future seasons of service.The stakes are high: neglecting this divine rhythm leads to exhaustion, distraction, and missed opportunities for spiritual growth. But embracing the balance unlocks a life marked by purpose, joy, and eternal impact. You’ll come away encouraged, equipped, and inspired to view your daily routines as part of your spiritual journey—whether you’re caring for children, recovering postpartum, or simply seeking grace in the everyday.Ideal for moms, homemakers, and anyone longing to find sacred purpose in daily life, this episode reminds us that both work and rest are divine gifts meant to be embraced, not endured. When held in proper place, they lead us to a more restful, faithful, and joyful life—as we work for the Lord and rest in His grace.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the significance of Advent for homemakers, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparation over festive perfection. They explore practical ways to create a Christ-centered atmosphere in the home, the value of family connections through shared meals, and the need to navigate comparison and personal convictions during the holiday season. The discussion also highlights the importance of finding rest and joy in the midst of busyness, encouraging listeners to embrace the season with intentionality and reflection.TakeawaysAdvent is a season of preparation and reflection.It's important to focus on the spiritual rather than the festive perfection.Creating a Christ-centered atmosphere can be achieved through simple changes.Family meals can serve as anchors during the busy season.Intentionality in daily routines fosters spiritual growth.Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy; focus on your family's unique journey.Rest is essential and can be found in changing activities rather than just sleep.Engaging children in the 'why' behind traditions enhances their understanding.It's okay for family traditions to evolve as children grow.Finding joy in the little moments can be more impactful than grand plans.KeywordsAdvent, homemaking, motherhood, spiritual growth, family traditions, Christmas, joy, peace, rest, faithChapters00:00 Embracing Advent: A Season of Waiting05:54 The Heart of Advent: What It Is and Isn't11:34 Creating a Christ-Centered Atmosphere17:52 Anchors of the Season: Family Routines and Traditions25:17 Balancing the Physical and Spiritual During Advent27:29 The Nutcracker and Spiritual Reflection29:05 Avoiding Over-Scheduling and Spiritual Overload30:21 Understanding Different Family Convictions33:05 Navigating Comparison and Social Media37:25 The Importance of Rest and Soul Care42:56 Finding Rest in Productive Activities49:20 Planning for the Future: Family Summits

In this conversation, Ashley and Marissa discuss the transition from parenting toddlers to teens, emphasizing the importance of early investment in children's lives. They explore themes of discipline, personal responsibility, and the significance of family culture. The discussion highlights the need for self-control, accountability, and the role of godly influences in shaping character. They also address the balance between control and freedom as children grow, and the importance of intentional parenting in fostering lasting values and relationships.TakeawaysParenting is a long-term commitment that requires investment in early years.Discipline should focus on heart posture rather than just actions.Teaching personal responsibility starts in toddlerhood and is crucial for later life.Friendships in teen years should involve accountability and mutual growth.Quality time is important, but the goal of parenting is to shape character.Self-control is a skill that needs to be cultivated from a young age.Family culture and values should be established early and maintained as children grow.The teenage years reflect the foundation laid in childhood.It's essential to balance control and freedom as children mature.Parents should be aware of the influences their children are exposed to.Chapters00:00 Transitioning from Toddlers to Teens02:54 Investing in Early Years for Future Success05:48 The Importance of Consistency in Parenting09:01 Recognizing Attitude Over Action12:00 Teaching Personal Responsibility14:55 Winning the Hearts of Your Children17:58 Balancing Control and Freedom in Parenting21:13 The Role of Self-Control in Development24:09 Guiding Friendships and Accountability27:00 Establishing Authority and Respect29:56 The Long-Term Impact of Early Training34:26 Navigating the Transition to Teenagers39:00 Cultivating Family Culture45:02 The Importance of External Influences49:19 Building Relationships and Character52:41 The Long-Term Impact of Early Parenting54:16 Emphasizing Grace Over Perfection01:00:13 Balancing Responsibilities and RestKeywordsparenting, toddlers, teens, discipline, family culture, self-control, accountability, intentional parenting, godly influence, personal responsibility

SummaryIn this conversation, Ashley and Marissa discuss the various sin issues that can lead to failed marriages, emphasizing the importance of guarding one's heart and examining personal behaviors. They explore themes such as discontentment, control, neglect, bitterness, and the idolatry of self, providing insights and practical advice for women to strengthen their marriages through gratitude, communication, and a focus on God's purpose in their relationships.TakeawaysMarriage has always been under attack since the beginning of time.The enemy targets marriages to disrupt families and society.Women should examine their own hearts rather than trying to fix their husbands.Practicing gratitude can combat discontentment in marriage.Communication is key to maintaining a healthy relationship.Neglecting the marriage can lead to emotional distance.Bitterness and unforgiveness can poison a relationship.Daily repentance is essential for a healthy marriage.Marriage should be viewed as a partnership in building God's kingdom.Women can influence their marriages positively through prayer and encouragement.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Marriage Challenges01:40 Cultural Attacks on Marriage05:13 Sin Issues Affecting Women in Marriage06:31 Discontentment and Comparison in Relationships17:44 Control and Disrespect in Marriage26:08 The Importance of Supportive Communication32:23 Neglect and Misplaced Priorities in Marriage38:24 Bitterness and Unforgiveness: A Silent Killer43:53 Idolatry of Self: Seeking Comfort Over Holiness47:34 Choosing to Rebuild: A Call to Action

In this Episode we chat all about the inevitable illnesses that come and go in our families. We chat through our strategies for preventing illness, and what we do when sickness strikes. Along with the practical things to do, we also discuss our attitudes as moms through times of colds and flus ...Check out Marissa's fun new project! Clothing with purpose: raisingrices.com/product/motherhood-is-my-ministry-reminder-sweatshirt/ Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

In this episode we continue to disagree with cultural lies by talking about the Biblical design for marriage - is it actually what the wall hanging says "All because two people fell in love" ?What does the word of God say about the purpose marriage? How can we look to the saints who have gone before us for wisdom on this subject?At the end we talk at length about eggs, but completely fail to discuss the most important upcoming holiday: Easter!We wish you all a blessed Holy Week! Thank you for listening.Marissa's fun new project! Clothing with purpose:raisingrices.com/product/motherhood-is-my-ministry-reminder-sweatshirt/Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

"What they bring you in with, they keep you with." This statement seems to ring true when we are looking for a church. And if it is, we need to ask ourselves: What are we allowing ourselves to be "brought in with" when looking for a church for our family to join?Finding a biblical church is no easy task in our current culture, yet it is vitally important for us. What are we teaching our children about finding a church? What is our role in the church and how do we consider that when looking for a church to attend? How do we leave a church well?Join us for episode 44 as we chat all about these topics!Marissa's fun new project! Clothing with purpose:raisingrices.com/product/motherhood-is-my-ministry-reminder-sweatshirt/Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Episode 43 // You're Still a Mom on VacationMarissa is back from a 9 day family vacation, so we took this opportunity to talk all about preparing, traveling, and vacationing with our families. Turns out, even on vacation we still need to lean into our God given roles as wife and mother!Also, check out the Rice's YouTube channel for an upcoming video on their trip:https://youtube.com/@raisingrices?si=-8v0X-p765Cv7t_ZMarissa's fun new project! Clothing with purpose:raisingrices.com/product/motherhood-is-my-ministry-reminder-sweatshirt/Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Episode 42 // Pouring out our lives  In a culture that is obsessed with comfort and self preservation, Christians need to be more intentional than ever to not get caught up in worldly ideas. We are called to give of ourselves sacrificially and to lay down our lives for others. In this episode we talk through what this looks like (and what it doesn't) as well as what kind of impact we could make for the Kingdom of God if we let Him use us as living sacrifices.  Also, Ashley gives a recap of the Formal and Marissa shares about a new project that you can check out here: raisingrices.com/product/motherhood-is-my-ministry-reminder-sweatshirt/  Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Episode 41 // Trials In this episode we talk about how to face trials in a God-honoring way. We discuss how to help our husbands or friends as they face trials, and how true joy from the Lord is what will ultimately make the difference as we deal with the trials that are guaranteed to come in this life... Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Welcome to our conversation on embracing Femininity in the Home, and why it is important to part of our biblical womanhood journey. We pray it is an encouragement to you and gets you thinking and talking about the beautiful role God has given you.

Welcome to Joyful Homemaking, where Marissa and Ashley are talking about embracing femininity. They are talking about the careful line we walk of avoiding legalism yet embracing the uniqueness of being female. Join in and listen to see stories of personal choices, convictions and conversations about how to be set apart. @Joyfulhomemakingpodcast

This week we continued our series on praying for our husbands. We talk through a few specific prayers for him including temptations, discernment in finances, and seeking wisdom. We also give some updates on what has been going on in our homemaking in the New Year ... Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

On our Joyful Homemaking Podcast today we are excited to being our series on praying for your husband. After decision on why prayer is vital for you, your husband and the whole family we dive into 5 distinctives on specific needs to pray for your husband. As we make habits of praying for our husbands our desire is to lift them up, have a right view and mindset of our husbands as well as partnering with Christ to be the means in which Christ will use our prayers to strengthen them. #prayingwife #joyful #homemaking #homemaker #podcast

Hello Friends! Thanks for logging on today to listen about some of our Christmas Homemaking thoughts. Along with an update from our technical team (wink -wink). We are excited to share our hearts and our vision for this Christmas Season.

After a three month pause to go hunting, have babies and things if that nature, we are back to podcasting! In this episode we catch you up to speed on the goings - on of our lives. Our update launches us into a conversation about relying on God in trials and not living in fear. We also talk briefly about our upcoming series. Thank you so much for listening and don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Homeschooling Part 2In this episode we chat through curriculum and scheduling.We talk about taking breaks, year-round schooling, and how to break down your year to schedule out your leasons.We also discuss homeschooling older kids when you have babies and toddlers and what things to consider when choosing curriculum.Whether you are a seasoned homeschooler or brand new, we hope these episodes all about homeschooling have encouraged and inspired you!Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Homeschooling Part 1 In this episode we dive into why both our families have chosen to homeschool. We talked about giving our children a Biblical worldview, shaping their character, learning as a family, and being able to choose their curriculum. We also chatted about how homeschooling has been so good for us as mothers- we have grown in our own education and sanctification through the gift of homeschooling our children. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Preparedness for the Homemaker Like many generations before us, we can accurately say that we live in tumultuous times. No one knows the future but God alone, and as Christian women we are to trust Him and look to the future with peace and joy. As we keep our hearts prepared for whatever may lie ahead, we can also prepare our homes. In this episode, we talk about the skills and relationships we have developed that help us prepare for any major future events. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Child Discipline Part 2 This week we continued our conversation about disciplining children. We talked through how to discipline for different stages and ages. The Bible makes it clear that we are to discipline our children if we love them, but that will still look different for each family and child. Our prayer is that sharing our experiences will help your family to navigate child discipline and that you will see the fruit of your consistent obedience to the Lord! Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Child Discipline Part 1 This week we began a discussion on disciplining children. We talked about the behaviors that warrant discipline (bad attitudes and disobedience). We also covered the importance of staying consistent in discipline, but also disciplining differently depending on the age, gender, and personality of the child. We hope this episode blesses you and that you join us next week for part two as we dive more into the specifics of how-to discipline. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhome

Gardening This week we chatted all about gardening- the spiritual implications, the practical how-to's, and gardening on a small or large scale no matter the space you are in. This topic is a vast one, so we also included tips for finding helpful gardening resources as well as some of our favorite resources... Happy gardening! 👩‍🌾 Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Summer! We (typically) only have eighteen summers with each of our children home with us, so how do we make this season fun and intentional without getting ourselves completely overwhelmed? This is the main topic this week... We pray you find it encouraging and helpful as you transition into the summer months! 🌞 Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Room by Room : Children's Bedrooms This week we chatted about the (apparently) hot topic of siblings sharing bedrooms, keeping kid bedrooms clean, bedroom rules when guests are over, and shared our opinions about what belongings should (and shouldn't) be in kids bedrooms... Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Room by Room : Master Bedroom This week we thought we would talk about bedrooms in general, but we realized we had so much to say about the master bedroom that we didn't get to anything else! In this episode we talk about the purpose of the master bedroom, whether or not a TV should be in the bedroom, if the bedroom is off limits to kids, bedroom decor, and, of course, intimacy in the bedroom! Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram

Room by Room : Office This week we continued our tour through the home by chatting about the office. Often, the office is more of a space than an actual room for the homemaker. We discussed the importance of keeping your office space separate from the place you have your Bible and prayer time. We also chatted about practically how to safeguard your children when they are using the computer, and we gave some tips about how to create an efficient and beautiful space that you will want to work in. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhome

Room by Room : Kitchen The kitchen can be a loaded topic for the homemaker! In this episode we talk about the importance of incorporating the whole family in the kitchen, and how we need to change our mindsets from it being "mom's kitchen" to the family kitchen. As usual, we chat about the sin issues that can arise in this room and give practical tips for working in the kitchen... Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Room by Room : Dining Room Sometimes this is a formal room, sometimes it's a table tucked into the kitchen - but whatever it may look like, your dining table is often the center of family life. Meal time, especially dinner, is the time that the whole family comes together to connect, relax, and enjoy fellowship. In this episode we talk about what furniture meets our family's needs in the dining area (and the furniture mistakes we have made!). We also talk about the why and how of making meal time beautiful and special. If you enjoy this episode, please also check out episode 21 "Meals and Mealtime" in which we dive deeper into the logistics of getting meals on the table as well as our family's meal time rules and habits... Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Room by Room : Front Room Sitting room, living room, parlour, front room... Whatever you may call it, in this episode we chat about the room that you invite guests into, but also in which you spend intentional family time. We talk about intentionality in decor and in practical function of this high-traffic room. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Episode 22 // Room by Room : Front Porch and Entryway Join us for our new series in which we go room by room through the home talking about applying family vision to each space, as well as setting up each space to function practically for our families. In our first episode we talk all about the front porch and entry way. Thank you for listening!

Meals and Mealtime This week we chat about why family meal time is important and the logistics of getting food on the table. We both talk about the meal habits that each of our family's prioritize before, during, and after meal time. We hope this conversation blesses your family's table fellowship!

This week we chat about the temptations of homemakers, specifically those with little children. Oftentimes this phase of motherhood can feel boring and/or overwhelming. Giving into those feelings can lead to sinful attitudes. We chat about ways to combat these attitudes as Christian homemakers. Thank you for listening!

This week we talked about making decisions. We discussed decisions big and small and how to go about this as women who seek to obey God's Word. Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Transitioning into Spring Happy Spring! In this episode we talk about how we are working in our homes to reflect the changing of seasons. We are spring cleaning, spring cooking, and looking ahead at the new season so that we can be prepared for all the changes that it brings. Thank you for listening!

Organizing Schedules This week we talked practically about our family's schedules and the organization there of. We hope this subject is helpful and doesn't bore you terribly... if it does, we hope our usual chit-chat about food and livestock animals will redeem the episode ;-) Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

In this episode we talked about vacations, holidays, traditions, and keeping the fun in the atmosphere of your home. We talked about how to approach fun with intentionality as well as temptations that can come when we think of "fun". As a bonus feature, tune in to learn all about the water distribution system of Southeastern Idaho (Ashley was fascinated)... Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

This week's chat was all about friends, family, and ministry. As homemakers, our children and husband are our first priority. So what should our relationship to our extended family look like? What about friendships with both believers and unbelievers? Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

Warning! You may want to save this episode for a time your kids are not listening with you- we talk about family relationships, and that includes your marriage, so we all know what that means! We also talk date night, one on one time with kids, being a servant, and so much more... Thank you for listening to Joyful Homemaking and don't forget to follow along on Instagram @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

The topic this week was SO massive that we barely scratched the surface. We talked about supporting our husbands in their careers and continuing education. We also discussed over-arching goals for our children's education. Additionally, Ashley hangs up on Marissa twice and gets sidetracked asking questions about kombucha techniques... Thank you for listening!!

In this episode we discussed the overarching characteristics of our households as we strive to have households that love and serve God. As homemakers, how do we cultivate places of peace, fellowship, and productivity in our homes? Thank you for listening and don't forget to follow along on IG @joyfulhomemakingpodcast

This week we talked about a necessity that can lead us into sin in so many ways: money.  We discussed how to analyze spending habits and ultimately how we can use this resource to the glory of God. We wrapped up by chatting about keeping a pantry stocked and cooking from your pantry when you can't leave the house or you don't have a meal plan... Thank you for listening!

In the second part of our goal setting series we talk about all things physical health - food, fitness, and overall wellness. We discuss transitioning your fitness depending on your season of life, thankfulness and comparison in food goals, idols and idleness, and so much more! As always, thank you so much for joining us!

Happy New Year! In this episode we dive into a series about goal setting in the New Year. We talk about reflecting on the past year to analyze what went well and what changes we want to make, then looking forward to setting spiritual and mental goals for 2024.

This week's episode is a shortened version of our podcast in which we encourage you toward Christmas joy, by talking through the common pitfalls that we might have in our attitudes during this season and practical ways to avoid them. We also talk briefly about testing out new family traditions, easy weeknight recipes for this upcoming busy week, and the Lockhart's surprise Christmas gift. Listen in while you do your late night gift wrapping or early morning cinnamon roll baking... Merry Christmas everyone!

In the style of "A Christmas Carol" we discuss how our past Christmases shape our present way of doing Christmas with our families, and what we look forward to in future Christmas seasons. We talk about vision, attitude, and keeping the focus on Jesus through the holiday season... And, of course, the food of Christmas!

Despite technical difficulties, we chatted this week about submission to our husbands: why it is important, what it looks like practically, and how the culture has twisted the idea of submission. Also included: the "what's cookin' " section and a debut from Ashley's daughter. Thank you for listening!

In this episode Marissa and Ashley discuss the admonishment in Titus 2 to be "kind". Why does God require this of us as homemakers? What is the difference between joy and happiness? We also chat about situations that come up in which we are tempted to be unkind and the practical solutions to dealing with those temptations. And, of course, we include our "what's cookin'?" section at the end. We hope you enjoy!

Join us as we chat about the Biblical mandate to "work at home". We talk about what it means to live this out practically in all phases of marriage and motherhood (at least the ones we've been through!). Of course, we also have our "what's cookin'?" section in which Marissa gives a family update and Ashley talks about God's purpose for turkeys.

Join Ashley and Marissa as they dive into the topic of working at home found in Titus 2. We pray that it will be an encouragement to you and give you much to think and pray about.

Join our conversation today as we use Titus 2 as the framework for navigating the difference between biblical versus cultural homemaking. As we seek to encourage women in their God given roles we talk about how to separate the lies of the world to the truth found in Gods word. And don’t forget to listen in to the WHATS COOKING section as we discuss Reformation Day, Broccoli Pizza, and the affordability of homemade verses store bought.