Life is Like a River

To be healthy in both physical and spiritual aspects of our lives, we must lead a balanced life. Balanced in terms of having both healthy “inputs” and “outputs” in our lives. Examples for our physical health are:

Inputs: Rest or sleep, exercise, healthy eating habits

Outputs: Better emotional capacity, clear thinking, stamina

Examples in our spiritual lives are:

Inputs: Reading your bible, regular prayer, attending worship, spiritual friendships

Outputs: Serving in the community, leading or teaching, providing care, energy to deal with trials

Consider your life as a river.

If there is only an input, the banks overflow and the river fills with debris.

If there is only an output, the river drains and the riverbed is exposed.

A healthy life is one in which we have a balance of healthy inputs.

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as[a] the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” – John 7:37-38 ESV

What one thing could you change to balance out your inputs and outputs, leading to a more balanced life?

Adapted from a message originally given by Pastor Timothy Keller