The Wheel Illustration

The Wheel illustration, created by Navigators 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 To Know Yourself (The Center Hub and Outer Rim)

Christ:

It is a necessary act of will to surrender totally to Christ’s authority and lordship. 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 gives 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, motives, and values. But they can also 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 who He is and how He calls us to live (2 Timothy 3:16). This means a personal intake of God’s Word is essential for our spiritual health and growth (Joshua 1:8). As God speaks to us through the Word, we learn how to obey and apply the gospel to every part of our lives, growing in our personal relationship with Jesus.

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 cares about our concerns. Prayer trains our hearts and minds to know the power and glory of God, and it 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 (Hebrews 10:24-25). Gathering together as the Body of Christ draws God close 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).