English 
繁體中文 
简体中文 
Living a Balanced Life by Following Isaac’s Example
To live a balanced life, I find Isaac’s story to be a powerful guide. In Genesis 26:24-25, God appears to Isaac and says, “I am the God of your father Abraham; do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you.” Isaac’s response demonstrates how to maintain a good relationship with God, my family, and my work.
First, Isaac built an altar. This action reminds me that God should always come first in my life. When I dedicate time to worship and connect with God—like keeping the Sabbath holy or starting my day with prayer and Bible reading—I’m putting God at the center. Just as Isaac prioritized his relationship with God, I need to spend time with my heavenly Father to nurture that bond. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33), and I take that to heart in my daily life.
Next, Isaac pitched his tent, symbolizing the importance of family. Taking care of my family is the second priority, right after my relationship with God. When I nurture my family with love and care, I create a stable environment that allows my children to grow up feeling secure and valued. Proverbs 22:6 reminds me, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it”. Attending to family life is essential, and without proper attention, it can lead to problems that are hard to reverse.
Finally, Isaac dug a well, representing his livelihood. Interestingly, this comes last because, with God’s blessing, my needs will be met. Isaac had faith that God would provide, so he didn’t stress over losing a well or two. I, too, can trust that God will supply my needs, as Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”.
As I reflect on Isaac’s life, I am reminded that I am also called to be an ambassador for Christ in all that I do. 2 Corinthians 5:20 encourages us with these words: “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” Just as Isaac represented God’s blessings and faithfulness, I, too, must represent Christ in my daily walk—whether at home, at work, or in my community.
In conclusion, Isaac’s life shows me that balance comes from putting God first, then caring for my family, and trusting God for my livelihood. By following this order and striving to please God in all I do, I can live a fruitful and blessed life, confident that His grace will sustain me.
I warmly invite you to attend the Chicago True Jesus Church’s Fall Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation this September. With the event’s theme, “All Things Become New,” as our inspiration, I hope that you will join us in discovering how Scripture offers guidance on living a balanced life. You can also join us for the Fall ESSC via online streaming. Here’s the ESSC schedule:
Thursday, September 26, 2024, 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, September 27-28, 2024, 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, September 29, 2024, 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org