Remembering again the quote from two days ago: “Most people tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship.” [source: bulletin clipping] Yes, we do live in a mixed-up world. We have pondered the attitude toward work and worship, but what about the play? Perhaps if work was as fun as play it would not seem so much like work!
Just as all play and no work generally proves to have a negative impact on economic stability and fails to contribute toward making something useful of the life, so also all work and no play can adversely impact the life in many ways; physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For the Jews, God had established the Sabbath law to protect them from themselves by providing a needed opportunity for rest. (Exodus 20:8-10; 34:21) It was the same for everyone as well as for the livestock and it mattered not what the season. Rest is a needed thing. Remember Jesus even withdrew at times from His work to recuperate and encouraged the disciples to do the same. (i.e. Luke 5:15-16; Mark 6:30-32)
The original idea of the word “recreation” had to do with “re-creation”; that is providing refreshment or renewal to mind and body. There can be something therapeutic about it. However, we must still bear in mind what we choose to do is to be pleasing to God.
Paul urged those at Corinth. . .
“(31) So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV)
That category of “whatever you do” is a large one. It can be filled with a wide variety of things. In connection with Paul’s statement here we find mentioned even things relating to the physical life; “eat and drink.” The “whatever”, however, is to be matched up with being done “to the glory of God.” Therefore, in keeping from getting our work, worship, and play from getting mixed-up, may it all be done in a manner that is wholesome and glorifying to God in all aspects!
Have a great day KNOWING LIVING FOR GOD HELPS KEEP ALL THINGS PROPERLY ORDERED!
Carl
