The Tension Between Discipline and Grace

I often find myself playing tug of war.

On one end discipline and the other grace.

If out of balance I can hardly keep a consistent pace.

Discipline is rigid and strict; I go too hard, to fast and burn out quick.

Grace is soft, tender and rest.

Yet if too much given, I have little ambition at best.

So what am I to do?

It's either put my limits to the test,

Or feel like my effort is a jest.

It's all or nothing, no in between.

I can't live this way, you know what I mean?

Is finding real balance attainable?

Or do I spend my whole life leaning one way or the other?

Life is a marathon, I want to live well.

Those who know, please do tell.

Grace is the space where healing takes place,

It's the story of Jesus and He sets the pace.

Discipline must heed His lead.

On it's own, it becomes a lifeless deed.

It may bear fruit, but will only go so far,

Grace is the rain that causes fruit to be above par.

So here in the tension, I sit silent with my thoughts.

Trying hard not to throw a fit about the war fought.

In the quiet I hear him speak,

"Sweet daughter, my child, please take a seat.

Trust me and know I hold your best.

My love is not based on your quest.

It is what it is, because I am who I am."

"Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup;

you make my lot secure.

The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;

surely I have a delightful inheritance.

I will praise the Lord, who counsels me;

even at night my heart instructs me.

I keep my eyes always on the Lord.

With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;

my body also will rest secure,

because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead,

nor will you let your faithful one see decay.

You make known to me the path of life;

you will fill me with joy in your presence,

with eternal pleasures at your right hand."

Psalm 16:5-11 NIV