We
relate to our physical world with our five senses. Also, our soul - including
our emotions, instinct and intellect - requires times of leisure and recreation
in order to maximize its effectiveness.
If
our soul does not prosper, our body and spirit will suffer also (3 John 1:2). Yet,
primarily focusing on fleshly, carnal aspects of life – even positive things
such as our vocation, ministries, family and hobbies - causes us to lose our
perspective.
The
type of recreation and the amount of time and money we put into these
activities determine whether or not we are catering to the flesh. Yet, if
we focus on religious aspects of life, we may grow self-righteous and
judgmental.
As
we focus on God's will for each moment of our day, He will bring us into balance.
We interact in the spiritual world through our spirit, which is Born Again at
the moment of salvation. God desires that we carry our spirituality into every
detail of our daily life (Colossians 3:17).
God
works out His perfection in us, and He will lead us to live a healthy life in
body, soul and spirit. He provides for all of our needs according to His
glorious riches, and He even gives us comfort so that He can comfort others
through us (2 Corinthians 1:4).
We
can only develop true equilibrium in life when we obey the direction of the
Spirit of God for each moment of our day. Not a legalistic, petty structure of
religious works, but a fluid stream of God’s gifts and character flowing
through us into the world around us.
Prayer:
Father
God, You gave each of us gifts and talents (Romans 12:6; 1 Timothy 6:17); not
for us to use them for our self, but so that You can use them for your glory through
us. We do all things through the strength and energy You supply for us.
In
this way, we cannot take any credit, but we will give you all of the glory and
power forever and ever (Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 Peter 4:10-11). Remind us that we
are only consumed by our human nature if we refuse to allow You
to reveal Christ in us according to Your good pleasure (Ephesians 1:9).
Thought
for the Day:
If
we trust in our own abilities and resources, we will fail; but as we step aside
and allow God to bless others through us, we will prosper as well.
- Proverbs 11:28
- Proverbs 11:28
