Understanding balance and harmony is an important part of everyday life. From a young age, we learn to focus on knowing when and how to take a break and relax. Sure, it’s natural to be ambitious and goal-driven, but it’s just as essential to recognize the need for balance in our lives. But what does the Bible say about this?
In ancient Jewish culture, the concept of balance and harmony was almost synonymous with the idea of shalom—peace, completeness and wellbeing in its entirety. In fact, the Hebrew root meaning of shalom is ‘to be made complete’, which is essentially what we’re aiming for when trying to maintain balance in our lives.
Balance is fundamental to Christian spirituality. From Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, to Paul’s letters to Corinth, to Ecclesiastes and the wisdom literature, the Bible communicates an understanding of life that encourages us to seek balance. In the New Testament, in particular, Jesus spoke often of finding the right rhythm of work and rest, particularly when it comes to prayer.
The Bible holds wisdom on everything from finances, to self care, to relationships, to spiritual wellness – and it’s important to explore this wisdom in order to maintain a balanced life. According to James 1:2-4, “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” This verse speaks to the importance of allowing trials and tribulations to allow us to grow and mature, even if it’s hard.
The next passage from Proverbs 16:9 is also inspiring: “We make our own plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” Even when we’re trying to keep a level head and remain balanced, God guides us and gives us the strength and perseverance to remain on our chosen path. Knowing this, we can feel at ease when things become unbalanced or start to get chaotic, as we’re reminded that the Lord is always with us.
The book of Ecclesiastes also speaks to the importance of remaining balanced. Ecclesiastes 7:16-17 reads, “Be not overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself? Do not be overly wicked, and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time?” This passage speaks to the idea of staying level headed, both in our actions and in our thought processes. In other words, it’s a reminder not to get too carried away, and to stay in a place of balance and moderation.
Work and Rest
When it comes to balance, it’s important to find a balance between work and rest. In the Bible, Proverbs 14:23 reminds us to not overwork ourselves. It reads, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” This verse speaks to the idea of working hard and not wasting our energy on unnecessary things. It’s a reminder that it’s important to take time to rest and reflect, as well as find joy without constantly running ourselves ragged.
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus tells us to “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Just like Jesus took time to rest, even in the face of opposition, we too should value taking time to rest. By making sure to set aside some time every day to rest and relax, we’re able to reenergize and recharge in order to tackle any problem with a clear head.
The Bible also speaks to the importance of taking breaks. Ecclesiastes 11:10 reads “Everything has its own time, and there is a specific time for every activity under the sun.” This is an important reminder to not work ourselves to the bone, and to instead recognize that there is a time for work and a time for rest. It’s important for us to make sure that we’re giving ourselves the time and space to take a break.
Finally, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 speaks to the importance of finding balance. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us to take time to be thankful, to be joyful, and to give ourselves grace. In this way, we’re able to maintain balance and harmony in our lives.
Finances
The Bible has many different verses that remind us to find balance with regard to our finances. Proverbs 21:20 is particularly profound. It reads “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.” This is a reminder to be conscientious with our finances, and to not overspend. This can help us to manage our finances and maintain balance in our lives.
2 Corinthians 8:9 is also a great reminder of the importance of balance. It reads “You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.” This verse speaks to the idea of striving for balance even when life gets difficult. It reminds us that despite financial struggles, it’s important to strive for peace of mind and the ability to provide for ourselves and those around us.
Proverbs 16:8 is another important verse when it comes to balance and finances. It reads “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” This speaks to the idea that it’s important to remain humble in matters of money and wealth, and to instead focus on managing our finances and taking care of ourselves.
Lastly, Ephesians 4:28 reminds us to stay level headed when it comes to money. “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.” This verse is an assurance that no matter our financial situation, we can still strive for balance and be generous to those around us.
Relationships
The Bible also holds wisdom regarding relationships. Philippians 4:5-7 reads “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This is a great reminder that when dealing with relationships, it’s important to remain patient and pray to God for guidance.
Proverbs 19:11 is another important verse when discussing relationships. It reads, “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” This is a reminder to be understanding and forgiving when appropriate, as it can help to maintain balance in our relationships.
In addition, Colossians 3:13-14 reminds us to “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” This passage helps us to understand that it is important to stay humble and understanding in matters of relationships, and to make sure we’re maintaining a good balance of love and forgiveness.
Finally, Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages us to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” This reminds us to stay diligent in our relationships and to not get too carried away, but instead focus on staying present and keeping the peace.
Self-Care and Wellness
The Bible also speaks a great deal to the importance of self-care and wellness. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us to “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This is a great reminder to honor our bodies, and to maintain balance in our own personal lives.
The next important passage is 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” This is a reminder that it’s ok to feel anxious, and to reach out to God for guidance and comfort. Knowing this, it can help us to find balance in stressful situations.
In addition, Psalm 139:14 is an inspiring passage when it comes to self-care and wellness. It reads “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” This is a reminder to love and appreciate ourselves, as God has made us in His image.
Finally, Philippians 4:6-7 is a great reminder of the importance of self-care and wellness. It reads “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage reminds us that no matter how chaotic the world may seem, God will always be there with us and help us to maintain peace and balance.
