Four Bible-Based Priorities For A Balanced Life

Four Bible-Based Priorities For A Balanced Life

And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.
—Luke 2:52

Jesus set the example for living a balanced life. I know, we usually blame imbalance on lack of time. But it’s really a lack of priority. Because we always make time for what’s important to us.

So make these four priorities a regular part of your schedule to enjoy a balanced life that is purposeful, meaningful and joyful.

Mind Development For An Intellectually Balanced Life

Jesus grew in wisdom…

The Greek word for wisdom is Sophia. It means wisdom, broad and full of intelligence; Varied knowledge of things human and divine.

Even at 12, Jesus was an avid learner who spent time in the temple listening to religious teachers and asking them questions. And he amazed the people with his understanding and answers.

Begin your balanced life with intellectual engagement. And keep your mind active–learning and creating–to keep it sharp.

Read books, listen to podcasts, take music lessons, continuing education classes and participate in discussion groups. In other words, don’t settle for couch vegetation and thoughtless Internet surfing.

Exercise & Nutrition For A Physically Balanced Life

Jesus grew in stature…

We can only speculate on what Jesus looked like. But he was a carpenter by trade, traveled on foot and regularly included fish in his diet. And carpentry was a more rugged occupation in his day than now. So it’s safe to assume Jesus was physically fit.

Terrific. We all know a balanced life includes exercise and a healthy diet. But knowing it and making happen is like the journey of a thousand miles. It requires determination and self-discipline. That’s my next blog topic.

Here’s the point: Your physical health impacts your cognitive and spiritual health. It improves your performance, your quality of life and your self-image.

Okay, so you don’t want to quit pizza and ice cream. Me neither. We’re going for a balanced life, not pleasure-less. So here’s a suggestion. Don’t approach it from what you should eliminate, but what you should ADD.

In other words, how can you add exercise into your week? How can you add fruit, vegetables and fish into your diet? Adding positive things into your lifestyle will naturally push out negative things.

Draw Closer To God For Spiritual Balance

Jesus grew in Favor with God…

By the time Jesus started his three year ministry, he was thoroughly knowledgeable in the Old Testament law. His balanced life included drawing close to his heavenly father through regular prayer. And God the father publicly affirmed him.

Therefore, an active, spiritual life is a must for a balanced life.

By Reading God’s Word.
God’s Word is a game changer because it is living and active. Studying and meditating on it will spiritually replenish you and unleash its transforming power within and through you. Along with prayer and confession, God’s Spirit leads you towards His will and a balanced life that glorifies Him.

By Serving Others
As Jesus demonstrated, we are also called to serve, not congregate in a holy huddle. It’s where you learn to exercise humility as you invest in advancing God’s Kingdom. Your eyes open to a bigger picture. And you find greater purpose through a hope that you are blessed to offer others.

Engage In Christian Community For Social Balance

Jesus grew in favor with man…

Jesus demonstrated a vibrant social life. He clearly enjoyed hanging out with all kinds of people and was often, the life of the party. Perhaps that’s why the Co-vid pandemic is especially difficult. We aren’t made to live cooped up at home.

But keep in mind that a godly life is best lived in community with other Christ-followers. The church.

So build healthy, social relationships with a variety of people. But do so in a public manner that lives out your faith.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is a freelance copywriter, published author, playwright and pastor. He publishes drama at www.chiptudor.com, books on Amazon.com, and articles on his blog.

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The Bible: How to Get The Most From Reading Scripture

The Bible: How to Get The Most From Reading Scripture

The New Year is often a time of spiritual reflection. And when searching for answers on life’s deeper meaning, many people turn to the Bible. While I have a seminary education and study the Bible on a regular basis, I still feel like what I don’t know far exceeds what I do know about what its truths. But I will say the scriptures have proven to be a reliable source of guidance for every single area of my life. Its teachings are practical, inspirational and eternal in application. So here are 3 guidelines to help you get the most from reading the Bible.

The Bible Is Relevant To Modern Life

Critics point out that the Bible is thousands of years old. An ancient document about ancient people speaking on far removed events not relevant to modern life. But read it from cover to cover and you’ll discover eye-opening similarities between then and now. Okay, some of the Old Testament books get a bit dry. But no other document in the world speaks with its candor about the reality, the struggles, the tragedies and triumphs of human life. All the events that took place thousands of years ago are taking place today. The Bible covers every issue we face today and pulls no punches. It is transparent…even raw in how it honestly addresses…
  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Adultery
  • Incest
  • War
  • Sexuality
  • Eternal Life
  • Money
  • Success
  • Power
  • Relationships
  • Love
  • Peace
  • Contentment
  • And the list goes on
The Bible speaks with authority. Offers practical insights and advice. And in spite of all life’s difficulties, still presents hope. There is no other book that is more relevant for life today.

The Bible Considers Itself Absolute Truth

This is probably the biggest reason the Bible is rejected in our modern society. It is written as a prescription. It should be followed according to doctor’s orders. But many of those prescriptions are uncomfortable and culturally unpopular. Love my enemies? Seriously? I’m struggling to love my family and friends. So rather than conform our lives to its teachings, we conform its teachings to our lifestyle. How? By calling truth relative and treating the Bible like a menu selection. Pick and choose the parts you like and reject the ones you don’t. Not how the Bible is designed for use, but still a worthwhile endeavor. Because truth is truth. And when you follow it…even in parts…even simply as good advice…you’ll benefit. Because treating other people the way you want to be treated is not only a Biblical truth. It’s a sound principle that pays off in positive, practical ways. But if you want to experience the Bible’s complete effect. If you want to experience its full, healing power. Then you have to follow the complete prescription. Why?

The Bible Claims There Is Power In Its Words

The Bible claims to be the very Word of God. And it says those words are alive and active…penetrate even to dividing soul and spirit…judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Wow. Pretty deep, huh? To be honest, I can’t fully explain what that means. I can say, God’s Word is not a magic formula. Words you repeat like hocus pocus, abra cadabra and poof, things occur. I will also add my own life is not a perfect example of any of them. Same is true for everyone else. But they are words you embrace. Practices you put into effect. Principles you follow. Many of them are very simple. Hardly any are easy. I will also say they are personally transforming. At least, it’s true in my own life and I’ve observed it in others too. The key is in how you approach the Bible. If you read it like a historical document. Or looking for loopholes, special exemptions or to justify your behavior, you’ll probably experience limited benefits. But if you read it with an open mind. With a willingness to receive it as absolute truth. And follow its prescription. It will change everything. Beginning with you. Chip Tudor is a professional copywriter, author and Pastor of Community Life at Fairhaven Church in Dayton, Ohio.

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