Balance

                          

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

• balance beam
• balance sheet
• weights & 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 & 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, 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 & judgment”. A habit? That would mean that balance is something that I can incline myself towards? Is it then possible that balance can become a tendency in my life? Can balance can be customary in my life? 

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 & requires less energy to go faster & farther when the wheels are in perfect alignment, you perform better when your thoughts, feelings, emotions, goals, & values are in balance.” (Brian Tracy)

Who of us does not want life to run more smoothly, requiring less energy? So the question now becomes, what is the balance that I 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. Yes, they will be in red in your Bible. In fact, He reiterates the  words, “in spirit & in truth” two times. 

“In spirit & in truth” means with a sincere mind, with a true heart, not with mere external rites.” (New Testament Lexical Aids). 

As people, particularly as women, we are both intellectual & emotional. That 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 that balance, there’s the word for today, of being sensitive to the Holy Spirit with both my heart & 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 & judgment. 

I read this quote & something about it, I loved - 

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

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