The Wheel Illustration
The Wheel diagram, created by Navigator founder Dawson Trotman in the
1930s, is a simple and effective way to visually explain the structure of a
God-glorifying life. Sharing it can be as simple as drawing it on a napkin or
notepad. The diagram challenges us to think deeply about how to be an
obedient follower of Christ and each part represents a crucial component of a
vibrant Christian life.
How You Relate to Yourself
THE CENTER HUB AND OUTER RIM
Christ:
Total surrender to Christ’s authority and lordship is not always a decision
made right at conversion, but is a necessary act of will. For the believer, the
“old life” has gone and the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17), and Christ
has begun to dwell in us (Galatians 2:20). God creates within us the desire to
do what He wants us to do in order to express His Lordship in our lives.
The Obedient Christian in Action:
Some acts of obedience to God are internal, such as attitudes, habits,
motives, values and day-to-day thoughts. But even these eventually surface
outwardly in our relationships with other people. Keeping His commands in
obedience is our outward indication of inward health and love for Christ (John
14:21, Romans 12:1).
How You Relate to God
THE VERTICAL SPOKES
The Word:
God uses His word to speak directly to us, revealing not only who He is, but
how He calls us to live and interact with everyone around us (2 Timothy
3:16). This means an earnest personal intake of God’s Word is essential for
our spiritual health and growth (Joshua 1:8). As God speaks to us through the
Scriptures, we learn how to obey Him and apply the gospel to every part of
our lives. We also come to know Jesus personally and find He is worthy of our
steadfast allegiance.
Prayer:
Prayer is the natural response to God as we hear Him speak through His
Word. It is sharing our heart with the One who longs for our companionship
and who cares about our concerns. Prayer not only trains our hearts and
minds to know the power and glory of God, but also turns His ear towards
action in our lives (John 15:7, Philippians 4:6-7).
How You Relate to Others
THE HORIZONTAL SPOKES
Fellowship:
God has directed Christians to build each other up through interdependence
and loving relationships with each other (Hebrews 10:24-25). Gathering
together as the Body of Christ draws God close around us as we praise Him
and encourage one another (Matthew 18:20).
Witnessing:
God has given believers the joy and responsibility of telling the world about
the good news of Christ’s work on Earth (Matthew 4:19). In fact, sharing
about His amazing grace is the natural overflow of a rich, vibrant life in Christ
(Romans 1:16)
