Having a husband in the auto industry, it is only appropriate that I would be struck with this quote:

“Just as your car runs more smoothly and requires less energy to go faster and farther when the wheels are in perfect alignment, you perform better when your thoughts, feelings, emotions, goals, and values are in balance.” (Brian Tracy)

The word “balance” conjures up several ideas in my head …

• balance beam
• balance sheet
• weights and balance
• in the balance
• balancing act

They each speak of order or perspective. The dictionary defines “balance” as….”a state of equilibrium; a mental steadiness or emotional stability; a habit of calm behavior and judgment”.

Most people strive for balance. Some have more balance than others. We tend to think of a “balanced” person as being perfect in all areas. Many would agree that there are days that it seems we are unable to maintain balance, especially in every area of our lives, all at the same time.

The question that has been weaving in my head the last few days is … what does balance need to look like in the life of a believer?

In looking back at the definitions of balance, it was that third one that hung me up ”“ “a habit of calm behavior and judgment”. A habit? Does this mean balance is something I can incline myself towards? Is it possible for balance to become a tendency in my life? Customary in my life?

Who of us does not want life to run more smoothly, requiring less energy? So the question now becomes, what is the balance that we need to maintain? Scripture tells us:

“But the time is coming””indeed it’s here now””when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.  For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
(John 4: 23-24). 

These are the very words of Jesus Himself, in fact, they may even be red in your Bible.

“In spirit and in truth” means “with a sincere mind, with a true heart, not with mere external rites”, as explained in the New Testament Lexical Aids.

As people, particularly as women, we are both intellectual and emotional. This then is the balance I need to strive for in my relationship with Christ. I do not want to be too emotional, as then I will lean towards the experiential in my walk. I do not want to lean to heavily on my intellect, as then I will become legalistic in my walk.

I want to find balance, becoming sensitive to the Holy Spirit with both my heart and my mind. As I am the kind of worshiper that Christ desires ”“ worshiping in spirit & in truth ”“ I will become a balanced woman, possessing calm, wise behavior and judgment.

Another quote which has been speaking to my heart has been:

“There’s no secret to balance. You just have to feel the waves.”
(Frank Hebert).

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me””watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30, MSG)

So while there may not be a formula by which we become balanced,
may we feel the waves of our walk with Him and thereby,
become a balanced people.