The Unbalanced Life

Achieving a “balanced life” is a prevalent concept in our current age, but is it simply a mirage?

In this episode of PREPPED, James Spencer, PhD, challenges this modern obsession with balance and productivity by inviting us to consider a more radical framework: a life wholly devoted to God. Rooted in the call of the Shema from Deuteronomy, this conversation explores how prioritizing God above all else redefines every area of life—not as competing compartments, but as parts of a whole aligned with divine purpose.

Through personal reflections, biblical narratives, and thoughtful theology, join us for this discussion as Dr. Spencer weaves together insights from Augustine’s idea of “reordering loves” with the metaphor of a Russian nesting doll to illustrate how all our loves, responsibilities, and pursuits must fit within our love for God.

If you’ve ever felt stretched thin or spiritually unmoored by the pressures of modern life, this episode may assist you in rethinking the way you pursue purpose, satisfaction, and faithfulness. Get ready to unpack the myths of balance and rediscover what it means to live with God at the center of our lives.

(00:00) Living a Life of Devotion
(14:08) Total Devotion to God
(27:21) Reordering Loves and Attention to God

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In a world filled with narratives that deny and overlook God, PREPPED empowers Christians to live out a story that has God at its center. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical ministry, PREPPED equips believers to proclaim the gospel in word and deed by developing a deep understanding of God’s word and the Christian life.

Hosted by James Spencer, PhD, and featuring special guests, this podcast is dedicated to breaking down complex theological ideas into practical, everyday insights, which will prepare you to challenge the world’s narratives about love, politics, success, and what it means to be a “good person”. From navigating the challenges of life’s transitions and engaging thoughtfully with technology and politics to strengthening discipleship and giving a faithful testimony to your neighbors, PREPPED empowers believers to live out God’s plan in a world that omits Him. Our mission is to ensure that the difference between God’s story and the world’s story becomes as clear as the difference between a baptism and a bath. Whether you’re interested in biblical studies, apologetics, ministry training, or are simply looking for guidance on living out your faith, PREPPED is here to prepare you for the journey. 

Are you ready to start retelling the world’s story from a God-centered approach? Subscribe to the PREPPED Podcast today and transform how you live and share God’s story in a world that desperately needs it.  Visit https://podcast.preppedforseminary.com for more information and resources.