There is a lot of talk about living a balanced life, eating a balanced diet, and the demands of balancing responsibilities with desires. There is this myth out there that if we can get everything in our life equally distributed then we can meet everyone’s expectations and life will be grand. This mindset pictures a person walking a tightrope. The person on the tightrope is trying to make sure that he keeps his balance so that he never falls over one side or the other. However, I want to challenge you today to realize that balance is not about equal emphasis on things in life but rather about proper emphasis on the right things in life.

If you want a good role model for living a balanced life, look at Jesus. Jesus said it like this Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Jesus did not implore us to treat all things equally; He commanded we treat all things properly. There is a difference between equal weight and balance. Think about it, there are 24 hours in a day and doctors tell you that you need to spend about eight of those sleeping. That means you are supposed to spend 1/3 of your day in the bed. That does not seem balanced but we all recognize that if you cheat sleep long enough it is going to affect all the other parts of your life. The same is true about balance in our spiritual life.

Jesus suggested that the key to living a balanced life is by putting first things first. What is the first thing Jesus said we should seek? His Kingdom. His Kingdom is about Him. When we seek Him first He brings all other things into proper alignment and He brings us into His provision. The joy in life you have been looking for will not come because you get everything right. True joy and peace will come because you get one thing right. You put God in the proper place in your life; in the center.

Today’s Challenge: Put Jesus in the center of your life. Life will always be out of balance and out of sync until He is in the proper place. Has something other than Jesus taken the place of priority in your life? If so, pray now and make Jesus the center of your life.

If you are in the Camden area, you can hear the rest of this message tonight at CFA or watch for the upcoming podcast at www.pastorgregsanders.com