Examining Scripture:
“For I say, through the grace
given unto me,
to every man
that is among you,
not to think of himself
more highly than
he ought to think;
but to think soberly,
according as God
hath dealt to every man
the measure of faith.
For as we have
many members in one body,
and all members
have not the same office:
So we, being many,
are one body in Christ,
and every one
members one of another.”
Romans 12:3-5
Evaluating Soil:
Hobbies can be fun and relaxing things to enjoy alone or with others. But, they can also be tricky possessions, projects, or passions to manage. Like gardens, hobbies can often overtake our lives and start controlling us if we don’t keep them under control. Before we know it, hobbies can entangle us and hinder spiritual and physical fruitfulness.
Usually, we’re more than willing to give our hearts, time, funds, energy and efforts to things we enjoy, and hobbies take a lot of each. The more we love what we pursue, the more resources, we’ll give to it. Unfortunately, that can lead to neglecting others and obligations if we’re not careful.
Without maintaining moderation, our interests can quickly go from hobbies to obsessions. We can even develop pride over our skills and accomplishments and an air of superiority over those who can’t own what we own, go where we go, or do what we do. That is when our hobbies cross a line in our hearts.
While it’s not wrong to enjoy the fruit of our labors, all the glory for what we own, do, and enjoy belongs to our Creator. Our hobbies should never promote self-centered, selfish behaviors in our actions or attitudes.
Experiencing Seasons:
I’ll admit that my hobbies have often consumed me. There have been times when I’ve wanted to sit on my porch, daydream in my garden, play the piano, practice the guitar, crochet, make something, ride my bike, or do anything but be responsible for my everyday tasks of life or helping others.
At other times, I’ve allowed my hobbies to become “self-inflicted, have to do it perfect, have to finish it now, have to show everyone what I did” endeavors that I have to make happen at all costs. I’m not usually competitive with others, but I will challenge myself to do more, do it better, and go faster.
Soon, I get let down with myself and can become kind of jealous of others’ accomplishments. That’s when I realize my hobby has become an obsession and I’ve missed the whole point of having a hobby.
Embracing Solace:
Relaxing should be enjoyable. There’s a quiet comfort in slipping away to engage in an interesting pastime while laying aside the weight of the world. It provides a sweet solace that renews our hearts and minds. It can even bring a controlled calm to an uncontrollable chaos.
Enjoying Simplicity:
However, hobbies shouldn’t drain our energy or pocketbooks. They shouldn’t add stress or pressure. They shouldn’t prevent us from handling responsibilities or torment us with overwhelming “things to accomplish” burdens. They shouldn’t cause us to neglect others either.
Employing Solutions:
God didn’t give us things to enjoy and consume only for ourselves or to make us look more productive or successful in others’ eyes. Our possessions and activities are opportunities to connect with others and have relationships that energize and encourage our souls for this wonderful journey called life.
Bring It Home
What hobbies do you enjoy?
Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC
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