Developing Others Through Coaching Training: Coaching Conversation: Stacey

Wrestling with Home, Space & Stewardship

Key Moments & Quotations

• Self: “I’ve been really thinking about our home … we need to possibly think about downsizing and moving to a smaller house.”
• Self: “I prayed about it … part of my heart says we have so much and need to give back … part of me says we might be using it for the Kingdom.”
• Self (about husband): “He’s kind of in my ear saying we need to downsize.”
• Self: “We just hosted a life-group last week … it was really beneficial that we had room for everyone.”
• Self: “Downsizing feels more Christ-like … humble … it’s not about the stuff.”
• Self (about fears): “I don’t want to have regret later on … I just want peace in my home.”
• Self (next step): “I need to sit down and talk to my husband again … put it in writing … pray about it.”
• Coach: “How about I follow up with you and just make sure you’ve had the conversation?”
• Self (closing): “Now I feel like I have a plan of action.”

Heartfelt Reflections

• I felt torn—thankful for the blessing of space yet burdened by the weight of mortgage and maintenance.
• I realized my attachment is partly sentimental: memories with the boys, quiet country living, land for homeschool and play.
• A conviction surfaced about stewardship and simplicity; I don’t want stuff to shape my heart.
• I fear making the wrong choice and losing peace—either through regret if we move, or ongoing strain if we stay.
• Hearing my husband’s background (sleeping on concrete floors, large family) reminds me why humility and generosity feel urgent to him.

Theological & Pastoral Insights

• Simplicity & Stewardship: I voiced that “it’s not about the stuff; it’s about the one thing we need—God.” Downsizing could be a tangible practice of holding blessings loosely and honoring God with resources.
• Hospitality as Kingdom Work: Our larger home currently hosts relatives and life-group gatherings; keeping space for ministry is also good stewardship.
• Union & Peace: The longing for “peace in my home” underscores marriage unity—discernment must be shared, not won.

Practical Next Steps

• Schedule an intentional sit-down with my husband this week—no interruptions—share these thoughts and feelings.
• Create a written pros/cons and cost comparison for staying versus downsizing, including ministry usage, finances, cleaning time, and future family needs.
• Pray together before making any decision, asking specifically for unity, clarity, and contentment whether we stay or move.
• Begin decluttering now, even if we stay, to test living with less and guard my heart from “shopping addiction.”

Follow-Up Plans

• The coach offered to check back after I talk with my husband to “just make sure you’ve had the conversation and keep it going.”