Building Houses: Finding the Balance Between God’s House and Our Own

As followers of Christ, our hearts long to honor God in all we do. But if we’re honest, sometimes we get out of balance—either so focused on building our own lives that we forget God’s work, or so committed to church ministry that our own homes suffer.

Is there a balance? The Bible says yes. And learning to build both our house and God’s house together is part of our calling.

In Haggai 1, the people were rebuilding their lives after exile. But while their own homes were coming together, God’s temple remained in ruins.

“Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?” – Haggai 1:4

God wasn’t upset that they were building homes—He was calling out their misplaced priorities. They were so focused on their comfort that they forgot their commitment to God.

“You have sown much, and harvested little… Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house.” – Haggai 1:6,9

The result? Frustration and burnout. They worked hard but saw little fruit because they left God out of the center.

On the other hand, it’s possible to pour so much energy into ministry that we neglect our own families and homes. Scripture calls us to care for both.

“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith.” – 1 Timothy 5:8

Even church leaders are required to keep their homes in order:

“If someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?” – 1 Timothy 3:5

Our first ministry is our home. God is not honored when we build a thriving church while our marriages and families quietly crumble behind the scenes.

Yes—the balance comes when we allow God to lead in both places. He never asks us to choose one over the other.

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” – Psalm 127:1

We need His wisdom to know when to work, when to rest, and when to invest. Jesus modeled this balance beautifully—He served the multitudes, but also withdrew to be with His Father and loved His close friends deeply.

You don’t have to choose between building your life or building the church. God invites you to do both—His way, with His strength. When we let Him build with us, we find joy, fruitfulness, and peace.

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” – Matthew 7:24

Pull up a chair to the Table & let's have a conversation. Comment below your thoughts or answer the questions below.

• Have I been so focused on building my own life that I’ve neglected the work of God?
• Have I let ministry take over at the cost of my family or spiritual health?
• What changes can I make to invite God to build both houses with me?