Read: Philipians 4:4-8, 1 Peter 5:6-11
It is so easy to get caught up in the hustling, bustling busyness of life. When is the last time you took time to reflect on how you balance your time? Do you feel balanced? Do you feel settled?
In seeking God and making efforts to live in reasonable moderation, "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:5-7). Finding God's peace is, in part, due to how we think because what we focus our minds on, in turn, drives the decisions we make and the actions we take. In his letter to the Philippians (4:8), Paul advises, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." What we think about and how we think about it matters.
According to Proverbs 11:1, "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight." Physically, mentally, and spiritually, are you placing adequate weight on the aspects of this life that matter most? Are you seeking balance? Peter wrote, "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.... But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you."
If He can balance the clouds in the sky, He can certainly balance the climate of our lives.
As an educator, having a personal sense of balance and feeling settled is influential in how we conduct ourselves in our classrooms, hallways, and communities. Our sense of balance affects those with whom we interact and teach. To best support deep, meaningful learning experiences, students and teachers need peaceful, calm, balanced learning environments. Have you prayed for peace and balance lately?
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for settling our minds on you amidst the busyness of this world. Please guide us to center our thoughts and actions on you and your will for us. We honor you and seek the joy and peace that faith in your son brings to us. We serve you, praise you, and ask for these blessings in Christ's name. Amen.
