The Tenets of a Balanced Life

Taekwondo
students typically learn the following tenets as they progress through the belt
ranks. They apply not only to athletes but also to everyone who aspires to a
balanced life because physical health corresponds to emotional and spiritual
health. However, I am not saying that physical training leads to spiritual
fulfillment (something that some practitioners would have you believe). As
Christians our spiritual walk should always center on the person of Christ as
revealed in Scripture.
 

Courtesy
The
martial arts teach that students should be courteous not only to their teachers
but also to each other. The Bible instructs us to be courteous and respectful
to all those with whom we come in contact
(1 Pet. 2:17).
 

Humility
A
humble attitude is necessary for martial arts students so that they can be
receptive to instruction. Likewise, Christians are to demonstrate humility
before God and others (Phil. 2:3).
 

Integrity
Integrity
is needed for those who would someday become teachers and mentors—not only of
the martial arts but also of the things of Christ (Titus 2:7–8).
 

Perseverance
Perseverance,
of course, is required in any physical endeavor, but it is also vital for the
emotional and spiritual trials each of us will face (Rom. 5: 3–4).
 

Self-Control
The
martial artist is not unlike the warrior who dons his armor. Self-control is a
hallmark of the warrior, in both the physical and spiritual sense, who must
learn to control his techniques as well as his temper
(1 Thess. 5: 8).
 

Indomitable Spirit
While
an indomitable spirit is a lot like perseverance, I explain to my students that
perseverance is “sticking with something,” whereas indomitable spirit is
“overcoming obstacles.”  As believers we
are truly endowed with the indomitable Holy Spirit (Rom. 8: 37–39).