Balance: Do You Live a Segregated Life or an Integrated One?

I will be strong and courageous. I will train my mind and body for the battles to come. 

Via The Joshua Commission

When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus answered:

"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment."

Jesus, like a great physician, looks beyond surface questions to reveal the nature of man, composed of four distinct but integrated parts: Heart, Soul, Mind, Strength.

In our modern world, we often segregate these parts into neat boxes, impacting how we live and think. Our intellect can lead to a science devoid of God; our hearts and souls may chase worldly lusts, making us enemies of God; our strength is frequently directed at pursuing glory and pride.

This struggle is not new. In Matthew 23:27, Jesus warns: "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones and uncleanness."

It's time to recognize and rebalance our lives. You must learn to train and integrate your Mind, Body, and Spirit. You are the sum of all three:

"A threefold cord is not quickly broken" (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

If you wish to be strong, cultivate strength in all three areas. Tear down the walls of separation in your life. Start by assessing yourself and asking God to help you see the imbalances present.

THE KINGDOM MAN’S CREED

I am a Kingdom Man. I am created by God to bear His image. I am a son and viceroy for my Fathers work. I am a warrior, lover, teacher and king.

I am a Kingdom Man. Like Joshua, I will be strong and courageous. I will train my mind and body for the battles to come. I will discipline my heart, eyes and tongue to be steadfast and faithful to the calling on my life.

I am a Kingdom Man. If a husband, I love and serve my wife, if a father, a loving father to my children. I will love and lead them as Christ loves the Church. If a brother, uncle, guardian, mentor or friend, I will give honor in all of my relationships. I will lead, teach, correct and train in the spirit of righteousness.

I am a Kingdom Man. I am called to break down barriers and free others from strongholds. I am a Peace Maker. My armor is Truth, Righteousness, Grace and Humility. I will stand in the gap for my neighbor to defend gospel justice for the marginalized. 

I am a Kingdom Man. God is my provider. He has given me gifts and talents to exemplify Him with the work of my hands. I will work with diligence and excellence. My labor will be honest and its fruits purposeful.

I am a Kingdom Man with a Kingdom vision. Commissioned by Christ. My life is the Father’s. I am intentional. I will grow in my faith, be consistent in my actions and leave a legacy worthy of the race I have run.

I AM a Kingdom Man!