April 18, 2024

The Value of Play

I think we would all agree that the Christian life is one to be taken seriously. But in our desire to go all out for Christ, we can get to a place where we are physically, emotionally, and spiritually drained.

God does not intend for us to live our lives that way. In fact, in 1 Timothy 6:17, Paul tells us,

God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.

You and I need to take time to enjoy the things God gives us. In fact, Jesus said this to His disciples in Mark 6:31, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”

It is so easy to live our lives believing that somehow it is more spiritual to be on the edge of exhaustion all the time. But God clearly tells us that we are to take time to rejuvenate and to enjoy the things He has put into our lives.

When I was a young minister, I had the chance to meet with a seasoned minister who had literally changed the world for Christ. I thought, “Man, this is my golden opportunity. I’m going to ask him some questions.”

So I said to him, “Look, I’m a young man in ministry. You have had decades more experience than me. You have impacted the world. What is the best advice you could give me as a young minister?”

And he said, “Well, Bayless, you have a nice golf swing. My advice is that you get some lessons. And whatever it costs you, join a country club and play golf regularly.” Then he looked at me and said, “Golf is the only thing that’s kept me alive.”

It was some of the best advice I had ever received.

You need to make sure you live a balanced life. Take time for rest and for play. Recharge your batteries. You are in this thing for the long haul.

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