Live life with a due sense of responsibility balance, not as those who do not know the meaning of life but as those who do.

–Ephesians 5:15

It’s all about balance, I thought to myself as I stumped through pickle weed and over driftwood before reaching the beach. It was a heavenly day and the tide was exceptionally low. There were clams and mussels to gather and oysters to shuck down by the water, but making my way safely over the logs, hauling a pail and shovel, posed quite a balancing act at moments.

When I occasionally lost my balance I appreciated the strong hand of my husband. But it occurred to me that losing my balance happens in other places besides the beach. I lose my balance when I dare to believe I can make it through this life using my own with strength of character and energy, perseverance and good intentions. On those days -— the days I venture out without giving God a good morning greeting or inviting Him into my day, asking Him to draw near to somebody I love or acknowledging that I can feel His presence -— I invariably lose my balance. And my timing. And my ability to think with true clarity.

And because I despise those days, I am learning to avoid them by giving myself a spiritual check. I work down a list of questions: Am I worshiping with others? Am I spending any time sharing my faith with others? Am I fulfilling my purpose in this life? Am I growing in character and spending quiet time each day with God? When I have answers to these questions, I also find balance.

Balance comes when you take the time and gather the courage to share your life experiences with people you love and trust. Such friends and family members give and receive feedback. They pray for you. They support you. They encourage you. They grow with you. They provide a measure of balance.

So does the practice of journaling your progress. I’m not talking about detailing the minute events of your life. Instead, I have found it incredibly insightful to clarify my understanding of God, pause long enough to detect His action in my life, and remember significant moments I might forget without writing them down. When I see God at work, I can begin to detect the ways He is helping me keep my balance, even when I fear I will stumble.

I also experience God’s balancing presence when I make time to gently share how God has helped me. This includes moments when seasoned advice is accepted and shared. It also includes sharing hope and encouragement. These will be the balancing forces in our lives when we care enough and stop long enough to share what we see God doing.

Grab a journal. Call a friend. Tell a story. Make your way to the beach, if you wish. Most of all, treasure the balancing force of God. He’ll give new meaning to all of our lives.

Reach Joan Klope at faithfulliving@hotmail.com.