Balance. What an amazing thing - the ability to stay upright, to stay together, to keep from falling. We marvel at the tightrope walkers who can keep their balance on small lines at staggering heights. We applaud the gymnasts who perform acrobatic feats on balance beams. And maybe we ought to be awed too at how we all get up every day and put one foot in front of the other, navigating dangers and steps of various kinds, all while keeping our balance.

Spiritual balance may be harder to keep than physical balance. Spiritual balance is about not going overboard with one aspect of our walk with Jesus that we neglect the others. Time and again, I have seen Christians - and even whole churches - do that very thing. Time and again, I’ve caught myself neglecting one of the basic things for which I was created.

For me, keeping my balance is easier when I am aware of the danger of losing it. I think more about it, concentrate a bit, make it a priority. Today’s chapter in PDL - and we’re almost done, so don’t bonk now - was a great reminder that for me to live a life that is worthy of God and pleases him in every way, I have got to worship him, fellowship with others, grow as a disciple, serve with faithfulness, and share Jesus with effectiveness. Balance.