READY
SET
Pedaling through a silent forest on my mountain bike I peer ahead as the trail drops off. I snap into a strangely intense state of mind. My gaze becomes laser focused. As I soar down a section of steep rocks the last thing on my mind is balance. And yet, balance is the foundation of the whole equation. Without balance my super fun moment would quickly become a super disaster. Without balance I would be colliding into the rocks, not flying down them.
An unbalanced life may also result in crashing headfirst into the rocks that we’re intended to soar over. The world around us is recognizing the importance of balance, and rightfully so. We were created for perfect balance with God and others. However, what is the source of balance in our lives and what does balance look like from a Christian perspective?
Culture and worldly thinking can easily seep into our minds and hearts, changing how we relate to God. It is important to stay grounded in truth as we explore biblical balance. As followers of Jesus, we do not need to create our own sense of balance. He has already done this for us: "...I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance." (John 10:10) Jesus often speaks of the life of peace and fullness that he intends to bring to his followers, in addition to the security of eternal life. His instructions on how to get it? "Come to me..." (Mathew 11:28-30)
From a worldly perspective, balance means being "in-control" of our own lives and creating a schedule that we feel has the correct work to rest ratio to experience refreshment and avoid burnout. While this sounds reasonable and even wise, God's word says, "The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." (1 Corinthians 1:25) From a biblical perspective, we are actually not in control; Jesus Christ is, and when we are in continual relationship with Him, we experience a life of rest and true balance, with no need for control.
Soul-rest follows the assurance that the God of the universe loves you, created you for a purpose and is working in you and through you in magnificent, transcendent ways. Ways that are beyond comprehension. Soul-rest provides us with a sense of peace and calm beneath the surface, even when, above the surface, we may be in the midst of a busy schedule or a season of a dark storm.
Practical approaches to achieving balance in your life are beneficial. But they must follow the soul's rest, not precede it. Seek first the kingdom of God, and then after that, go ahead and address practical needs like getting more sleep, eating a balanced diet, taking vacations, and developing a healthy work-life balance. But our ultimate sense of balance comes through the hope and fulfillment of finding soul-rest through a relationship with Jesus.
GO
Describe the similarities between being an action-sport athlete and living life as a follower of Jesus. How do the challenges actually help you grow? What is the result of practiced repetition over time? How do you handle discouragement?
Describe the difference between the world's understanding of a balanced life and the fullness of life that Jesus speaks of in John 10:10.
Take a moment to pray through these questions, then write out where you feel God has grown you in spiritual-balance, and what He is currently working on in you.
WORKOUT
OVERTIME
“Jesus, thank you that through your name and power I can experience true rest. Help me learn how to give you control of my life and trust in you with all of my heart. Show me how to let you be my shepherd, and to want not. Please help me to discern the true wisdom from you that will set me free. In Jesus' name, Amen.”