J.R. Briggs
Attempting to behold the miracle long enough without falling asleep
-
exploring discipleship: the balanced life
What is the balanced life of a Jesus disciple? An inward life, an outward life and an upward life.
in. out. up.
An inward journey focuses on my soul and what God is doing in me. An outward life is how I’m publicly living beyond myself, serving others. And an upward life is a life marked with worship to God, showing Him His worth in various expressions. (Some would call this the “IOU”). When these three areas are active and working together, evidence of a balanced life of the disciple is present.
I have seen and used this diagram many times before. However, recently, Mike Breen, in his book The Passionate Church, helped me understand this concept the best by giving two examples from Scripture: (1) the OT prophet Micah (Micah 6:8) and (2) from Jesus (in Luke 6:12-19).
(Click image to enlarge)
- Sometimes we can live inwardly and outwardly but neglect a life of worship – thus, missing the point.
- Sometimes we can live outwardly and upwardly but neglect our inner life – this almost certainly leads to burnout.
- Sometimes we can live inwardly and upwardly but never live out our faith to those around us – this leads to a “private” faith, something Jesus never advocates in Scripture.
Sometimes certain sides of the triangle can grow longer – or shorter – than the others, creating an obtuse triangle. The life of a follower of Jesus is that all sides are vibrant, robust and active. It’s worth asking yourself (and others):
- Which one of the three areas is the strongest in this season of my life? why?
- Which one of the three areas is the weakest in this season of my life? Why?
- How might those who know me best answer these questions?
- What might the Holy Spirit want to change in me – in, out, up?
- Practically, how might we begin to move in that direction in a grace-filled manner?
For some, this diagram is basic and simplistic, but if we truly get this into our bloodstream, we can begin to grasp the significant elements of how our journey with Jesus is lived out.
Sam said...
1Thanks for sharing. It’s simple, but profound and I guess always a quick check on where we stand
01/30/12 1:08 AM | Comment Link
Phil Holland said...
2I love this concept. CAll me simple, but I am not sure how the Luke 6, ties in with this? I will look for the book you are referencing for more info. Again I love the concept.
Phil
07/10/12 1:18 PM | Comment Link