Everything occurs for a reason, even when we don’t understand the reason. It’s why we need balance. When things move beyond us, we don’t have to waver and fall. We just dig in deep and keep standing. Trust God. He knows all and sees all, and He always has the last say.
I Corinthians 3:16 reminds us that we are the temples of God, yet we operate in fleshly bodies that require food, exercise, and rest. There’s no getting around it. So, how do we maintain balance?
- Fix your eyes on God and His Word. Immerse yourself in the Word. Keep your mind on Him so that you can remain in perfect peace. Remember Peter? When he focused on Jesus, he walked on the water. When he took his eyes off of Jesus, he began to sink into the water. But Jesus was there to rescue Peter, just like He does with us. Keep your eyes on Jesus, He’s right there. He won’t let you drown.
- Lack of strength will compromise your balance, so be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10). And remember, the joy of the Lord is your strength (Neh. 8:10). If your joy is misplaced, you will lose your balance. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that waiting on the Lord renews our strength and Psalm 46 reminds us that God Himself is our Strength. We have to endure to the end and that will require stamina and strength.
- The more flexible you are, the better your balance. You have to be ready to move outside of the box to adapt quickly and trust God to move on your behalf. If you’re addressing the members in a boardroom, wear a suit. If you’re at the basketball court, that suit may not be as effective. Be aware of your surroundings. Represent God always, but use some wisdom. I Corinthian 9:22 says, “To the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.”
- Believe it or not, eating right and exercise are directly linked to your energy level. When you are physically active, you actually build your energy level. Your body requires nutrients to function properly. Take care of your body; it’s the only one you have. Be active, get up and move. That also increases your energy. And when you do feel fatigued, rest. If God took the time to rest, what makes you think you don’t need to rest? It takes energy to finish the race. This walk isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. Remember, you must endure to the end.
Life is demanding. It can be a challenge to find the balance between “the church,” family, career, and time for yourself. Many people burn out when balance becomes compromised, and it takes a toll spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Ask God to help you, to keep you, and to give you wisdom in pursuing and maintaining balance.
The Manna Chef 