During a heated political debate Abraham Lincoln was accused of being two-faced and insincere. Lincoln quickly retorted with a touch of humor. Referencing his homely appearance he said, “Honestly, if I were two-faced, would I be showing you this one?”

We chuckle at the witty reply but the truth is, none of us like to be called two-faced. It casks a negative light on our character, suggesting we would easily flow with whatever tide of opinion seems to benefit us at the time. While we’re tempted to think of it as gain or the easy way out of a difficult situation, it’s actually a strategy for defeat. Lincoln borrowed from the wisdom of Jesus when he said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” (Mark 3:25) It’s true for a nation; it’s true for an individual.

In his little book of wisdom to business people, Myron Rush reminded us that Satan’s cleverest lie was to convince us we have two lives: one for worship and one for work. Believing the lie sways us to believe we can:

• act reverently in church and then yell at the kids on the way home
• talk about world missions at church but neglect telling our neighbors about Jesus
•  pray for compassion but treating employees and coworkers with contempt
• build treasures in heaven while heaping  up treasures on earth

We have just one life to live, a life of integrity and consistent character, whose word is true which ever audience receives it. Whether a person is considered particularly spiritual in nature or not, the one whose word is true is respected. And if it’s what we most respect in others, shouldn’t we strive to achieve it as well?

What does an integrated life look like? I think it best to state the obvious up front: it’s not perfect. No one has it all together all the time. None of us own the corner store on truth. Even if we embrace the absolute truth of the one true God whose character and wisdom is always the same – yesterday, today, and tomorrow – our understanding and application of that truth is limited. We wisely seek the mind of Christ, but none of us have it completely, save what the Spirit of God reveals to us and we readily embrace.

An integrated life does not seek balance like the stage performer who tries to keep all the plates spinning on a stick by spending a little time here and there with each one. That’s chaos waiting for disaster. We try to balance work and family, hobbies and devotions, financial security and generosity. But eventually we all run short on energy and the plates come crashing down in our lives.

Rather an integrated life is more like the process of infusion. We all know that if we put some lemons, limes, and oranges into water along with a touch of mint, cucumber, or basil, will result in a tasty and refreshing drink. The water absorbs the vital essence of that which is allowed to steep in it.

We – whose bodies are 2/3 water – likewise are most refreshed and satisfied when we’re infused with the fruit of the Spirit. When we intentionally infuse love, joy, and peace into our daily agendas, everything we think, say or do starts to become flavored by their virtue. When we allow our relationships and interactions with those around us to be bathed in patience, kindness and goodness, we effectively live out God’s singular message of “love your neighbor.” When we pursue the character of God which includes faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, we are able to see the world around us, even our troubles, through his eyes.

Of course, what the water tastes like depends on what is infused in it. Replace love, joy, and peace with anger, jealousy and bitterness and our lives take on a very different, unpleasant taste. Infuse self-centered thinking and apathy, and we  will not see others at all. Soak our lives in instant gratification and comfort, we take on the flavor that does not satisfy nor refresh.

The longer the essence is infused, the more it will resemble the original. We were created in God’s image and urged to reflect him in all we do – not just our Sunday prayer lives but our everyday activities and ambitions. When what we seek is to be infused completely by God’s truth and grace, our lives are transformed. Dedication to thankfulness drives away self-pity. Forgiveness (of self and others) banishes bitterness and regret. Generosity dissolves greed.

There’s nothing two-faced about it. Who God is becomes who we are. One life to live with his purpose and passion.