Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
(Gal. 5:25)
How many times have we been asked to do the exercise? List out your priorities as you want them to be … Of course we’re supposed to put God first, then family second, or wait, maybe we’re supposed to put ourselves first, but then what about our spouse, and then work is a must so where does that fit in? I’ll tell you what:
No matter how many times I’ve listed out my priorities it’s never revolutionized my life.
Here’s what’s revolutionized my life:
Understanding that it’s not knowing my primary priority that matters but knowing my primary identity.
We do what we do because we are who we are.
I love how the NIV translates Galatians 5:25 (above). Essentially Paul is saying, “Because you live by the Spirit, have been made alive by the Spirit, because your identity is a Spirit-birthed individual, live like one! Keep in step with the one who gives you life and you will have life.”
Who are we? We are, of course, children of the Most High God, chosen and redeemed, set free from sin and alive to God, called according to His purpose that we would walk in good works every single day of our lives, bringing Him glory, delighting in His goodness, displaying His power to a lost world hungering for hope. We’re servants, we’re worshipers, we’re family, we’re learners, we’re missionaries. We are, first and foremost, disciples of Jesus Christ.
What if I look at my to-do list with that in mind? Keeping in mind that everything that I do I do as a disciple of Jesus Christ, called to fulfill His great commission and be His ambassador here on earth?
No where in Scripture are we called to find balance. Our notion of “finding balance” is cultural. Christ calls us to take our whole life — work, play, service, both sacred and secular — and drench it in the water of His Spirit so that as we move about this world we’re soaking wet, dripping all over the world, spreading the gospel not because we’re handing out tracts but because we’re handing out hope. We’re kind, patient, loving, gentle … our life displays the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-24).
What is our identity? Are we citizens of earth or citizens of heaven? Our identity determines how we live. We can walk in step with the world, running to keep up with the passing pleasures of each new year, or we can walk in step with the spirit, knowing that in His presence is fullness of joy.
{How does your identity shape the way you interact with this day? Thanks for thinking on this, and for reading.}
4 thoughts on “When you're trying to find balance …”
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I’ve made those lists before and I remember only being discourgaged by my inability to keep things in my life in their proper order. But I’ve seen that, as I’ve grown in my relationship, my priorities have lined up (more) on their own. By walking in the Spirit, our priorities stay in order. Whose we are should dictate every moment of our day.
Kari, I want to thank you for being so encouraging to me on here. I always appreciate your replies. You’re sweet!
Amen, Jennifer! Well I appreciate that YOU would take the time to read and engage and join me in this little corner of the world. Won’t it be a fun party when we all meet in heaven? I love your heart, keep going toward Jesus!
My gosh I love this! It’s the meat and potatoes and perfect conviction I needed today….always the reminder to check myself and to do all I can to be soaking wet and dripping hope all over the place. Thanks for the perfect picture with words. I love it!
Kari, this has been hard for me to wrap my head around lately with all the busyness that is in our life lately. I need to get this straight so I can live my life the way HE wants me to and so the glory can go to HIM, not what I think the priority is. Thanks for the reminder friend!
Melissa