The Wheel diagram is a simple and effective way to visually explain the structure of a God-glorifying life, challenging us to think deeply about how to be an obedient follower of Christ. Each part represents a crucial component of a vibrant Christian life. How this helps: The Wheel helps believers understand what they are called to do as disciples of Christ, revealing how we relate to God and others.
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.
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.
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).
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 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).
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).
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).