By Nicole Brown
Our homes are more than shelters; they are the backdrops, or “BTS,” to our daily lives, the spaces where we nurture relationships, seek solace, and connect with God. Just as we choose our attire with care, comfort, and personal expression, we can shape our living spaces to reflect beauty, order, and praise to our Father, who has entrusted us with this blessing.
This isn’t about chasing trends but being intentional about how we want our space to feel when we come in at the end of a long day.
The colors you choose for your walls can evoke feelings of peace and tranquility, much like a soothing color palette in your wardrobe. The textures you introduce through throws and pillows can add warmth and invitation, mirroring the cozy embrace of a favorite sweater. Even the way you arrange furniture can foster connection and hospitality like an outfit carefully put together for nights out with your friends or spouse!
Here are some ways to cultivate beauty and purpose in your home:
- Embrace natural elements: All of God’s creation sparks inspiration that we can use in our homes: the vibrant hues in a sunset, the rainbow, the blooms in flowers, the colors of the oceans … Bring the outdoors in with plants, natural wood tones, and textures like linen and cotton. Choose colors that resonate with you. Soft blues and greens can inspire serenity, while warm earth tones can foster a sense of groundedness. Don’t be afraid to play around with different colors and textures.
- Function with grace: A decluttered and intentionally arranged home can foster tranquility. Striving for simplicity, as well as making a space functional, helps make moving and serving in our day-to-day a breeze. Setting aside a day each week to straighten up my space reduces my anxiety and helps me feel more focused.
- Meaningful accents: Display items that hold spiritual significance or remind you of God’s blessings: a cross, a meaningful piece of art, a Bible verse beautifully framed. These are like the cherished accessories and jewelry that add depth and character to complete an outfit and tell a story. I have a piece of art that says, “I trust the next chapter, because I know the Author” hanging in my bedroom. It’s the first thing I see when I wake up.
- Purchase mindfully: When choosing decor, consider quality and longevity over trends. Don’t get overwhelmed by homes you see in magazines or social media. Your home should be a space of peace and rest, and that looks different for every home.
It’s an ongoing, gentle process, this “dressing” of our dwellings. May it be a joyful one, a way to cultivate spaces that reflect the love and grace that dwell within you. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV) reads: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Our intentionality in creating a welcoming and peaceful home can be seen as an act that brings Him glory.
Nicole Brown, the creative force behind Lelia’s Southern Charm, channels her passion for fashion into inspiring content, sharing her latest finds, Pinterest-worthy outfits, and local favorites. When not curating her digital closet, she’s exploring new destinations and cultivating a community that celebrates finding the joy in the everyday! Find her at LeliasSouthernCharm.com, @leliassoutherncharm on Instagram or TikTok, and Lelia’s Southern Charm on Facebook and Pinterest.