Balance

Balance: a state of equilibrium or equipoise; equal distribution of weight, amount, etc... The meaning has a little extra significance today because of the winter storm. In fact, I learned a trick to staying on your feet when it is slick outside: lean forward an inch or two. The article read that it keeps your center of gravity more forward and under your feet. I have yet to fall while walking on ice since reading the article.

And now tonight I will fall. Hahahaha.

I am halfway through a book titled The Jesus of Suburbia. I recently set the book aside to create more time for my graduate class and because I now have another book. In chapter six, of The Jesus of Suburbia, Mike Erre writes that even as early as when we learn how to pray we are unintentionally deceived: God is interested in our devotions, a friend who is sick, and church.

But if Jesus is also God and God Jesus, then God is concerned with every part of our lives. Jesus did not only perform miracles and teach; He had friendships, acted as a mentor, showed compassion. And he prayed, spent time alone with God, and went to “church.” Jesus was interested in everything that was going on in the lives of the people around Him.

So how do we start to balance our lives? Can we separate secular and Christian? Or should we just lump it all together and call it life?

Right now, this moment, I am learning how to balance what I know about God, with what I am learning about God, with what I am learning about me. Let me give you an example:

I am angry with a certain person at church. The Bible reads in Romans that we are to live at peace with everyone around me, and Jesus said that I am to “love” my neighbors as myself. But how does all that work?

I am called by God to agape those around me. (Mark 12)

I am called to live at peace with those around me. (Romans 12)

I am advised to speak when I am calm. (Proverbs 15)

I am allowed to be angry. I am allowed to be hurt. I am allowed to not like someone, if I desire things to be right between us.

So I am beginning to find my balance. Balancing my emotions with Jesus’ teachings: my natural self with my spiritual self. It is hard.

My challenge to you is to listen to this song and make it your prayer for the following week. It will help you understand how to balance the way you want to react with how God wants you to love.

Love’s Not Easy, Francesca Battistelli

What do you need to discuss with God today?

If you are not sure, just pick a spot and go with it. God is concerned with all of your life.