Atmosphere by Ashlyn Rata

Atmosphere. A word we all know well and a word that truly holds immense weight.

When you enter a room, you feel the atmosphere and vibe around you. Your body immediately picks up on the non verbals and senses whether or not you feel “safe” and welcomed.

Proverbs 31 is such an empowering portion of scripture for women and it preaches a different version of “women empowerment” than the world is preaching today. As a woman who has been married for only 5 short months, I lean heavily into this scripture as it reminds me of my role and the gift it is to be able to perform it. The beauty of Proverbs 31 is that it discusses how women create an atmosphere that is Holy and pleasing to God.

The aesthetic atmosphere and spiritual atmosphere of a home combine together to create something so beautiful that only God could have designed. He gave us eyes to appreciate beauty (this includes home decor) and a nose to smell the wonderful scents that say “you are welcome”. Ya know what I mean? That one cozy candle that just sings COZZZYYYYY and JOYYYY! You may laugh- but you know what I am talking about!

Now back to Proverbs 31… we are homemakers which holds so much power ladies!! If you are married or even if you are living by yourself, the atmosphere you make in your home is immediately noticed by those who enter.

For me as a married woman- God has gifted me (and you) with the responsibility to create an atmosphere where my spouse can thrive, feel loved, and I am here to empower him! I want him to succeed! What an amazing job that is!!

By making food, doing laundry, lighting that candle, keeping things in order (as much as real life allows), planting those flowers out front, and decorating your space to make it a HOME- you create an atmosphere not only for yourself to enjoy- but your husband notices it too (even if he doesn’t say it).

But I want to end this on one important note from Proverbs 31- the Proverbs 31 woman is not just a homemaker, she is an empowered businesswoman. She makes linen garments and sells them! Ladies!!! Step into this calling and do not be set back to think that you are “only” meant for one thing!! God has opened the door for you to become a homemaker, a businesswoman, a mom, a wife, and an ATMOSPHERE maker!

Go do and do it according to the empowerment that comes from scripture- not the empowerment that comes from humanity. Face the facts that women cannot do everything that men can and vice versa. WE ARE MADE for such a time as this and with such an incredible purpose! Go read through Proverbs 31:10-31 and revisit the incredible responsibility God has called us to!

A little bit about the author:

Ashlyn is an entrepreneur and started up her own bakery business ,"The Paint Can Bakery", when she was a junior in high school and enjoys making baked goods for various occasions. She also enjoys teaching preschool where she uses other skills and passions to invest in early learners. She currently resides in Winona Lake, IN with her husband Tim, and they are moving to Bloomington, IN this summer beginning a new journey together!