Entertainment: Maintaining Christian Values in Leisure Activities

How we choose to spend our leisure time reflects our deepest values and priorities. In a world filled with endless entertainment options, believers must exercise discernment to ensure their recreational activities honor God and strengthen their faith rather than compromise their spiritual walk.

The Influence of Television and Media

Be careful whatever you do in your spare time does not compromise your standards or subtly snare you away from devotion to God. The Bible warns in the last days, "People…will be lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God" (2 Tim 3:4). Regularly monitor the amount and content of television you watch as it has a powerful influence to warp our values and condition us to the godless ways of the world, indoctrinating us with its evil.

Except for Christian programs, news bulletins and documentaries, the remainder of this medium is largely saturated with sex, violence, and unharmonious interpersonal relationships. Don't let entertainment shape your values as what we allow to invade our minds, capture our attention and consume our energy during our times of relaxation requires serious scrutiny – does it bring you closer to Christ or separate you from Him? Would you be embarrassed if you could visibly see Jesus with you? "Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Cor 10:31).

Social Media and Digital Discernment

Social media platforms present unique challenges for believers seeking to maintain their Christian witness. These platforms can become consumers of our time, attention, and emotional energy, often promoting comparison, envy, and discontent. The endless scroll can create an addictive pattern that keeps us focused on temporal concerns rather than eternal priorities (Col 3:2).

This life is not all about us. When we spend excessive hours curating our online image or consuming content that feeds our ego, we lose sight of our higher calling. Jesus taught us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him (Lk 9:23). Our time on social media should reflect selflessness rather than self-promotion, using these platforms to encourage others, share truth, and advance God's kingdom rather than seeking personal validation or popularity.

Guarding Our Hearts and Minds

In our times of rest and relaxation (along with our whole life's expression) we are instructed to "not become a stumbling block to the weak" in the faith, by what we involve ourselves with (1 Cor 8:9). At all times we are to "Guard our heart more than any treasure, for it governs our whole life" (Prov 4:23). Hence, it is imperative to tightly monitor the input into being as the evil that we so easily display comes from our heart (Mt 15:18-19).

We should endeavour to make all things serve our purpose and calling in life. The enemy is out to tempt us to sin and be less effective and committed to the cause of Christ (Mt 6:24; 1 Pet 5:8). Don't let him win the battle with you.

Don't let Satan gain the advantage

Making Wise Entertainment Choices

Our values determine how we spend our leisure time. When we choose entertainment that aligns with biblical principles, we strengthen our spiritual foundation and maintain a clear conscience before God. This requires intentional decision-making and a commitment to purity in all areas of life.

By setting clear boundaries and being selective about the media we consume, we protect ourselves from harmful influences and create space for activities that edify our spirit and draw us closer to God. This discernment is not about legalism but about stewardship of the time and opportunities God has entrusted to us.

Using Time Wisely for Eternity

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the brevity of life and the importance of using our time wisely. "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" (Ps 90:12). Every moment is a gift from God, and we will give an account for how we have used the time entrusted to us. Entertainment and leisure are not inherently wrong, but they must be kept in proper perspective.

We are called to be stewards of our time, investing it in things that have eternal value. This means prioritizing relationships, serving others, growing in faith, and sharing the gospel. When we view our leisure activities through the lens of eternity, we make choices that honor God and prepare us for our ultimate home with Him. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (2 Cor 4:18).

We were created for God's glory, not our own pleasure. When entertainment and leisure activities become self-centered pursuits, they distract us from our true purpose. Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and He calls us to follow His example of selflessness (Mk 10:45). Our recreation should refresh us for greater service, not become an end in itself.

This life is not all about us

The pursuit of entertainment can easily become a form of escapism that numbs us to the needs around us and dulls our spiritual sensitivity. Instead of seeking constant amusement, we should look for ways to use our leisure time to bless others, build relationships, and grow in our walk with Christ.

Time is one of our most precious resources, yet it is often squandered on trivial pursuits that have no lasting value. The apostle Paul urges us to "make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil" (Eph 5:16). This means being intentional about how we spend our leisure hours and choosing activities that align with God's purposes.

When we stand before Christ, we will not be rewarded for how many hours we spent watching television or scrolling through social media. Instead, we will give an account for how we used our time to love God, serve others, and advance His kingdom. Let us invest our leisure in ways that yield eternal fruit.

Reflection and Application:

Review your current entertainment habits – do they reflect Godly values?
Identify one area where you may need to set healthier boundaries
Consider how your entertainment choices influence your spiritual walk
Prayerfully evaluate if Jesus would be comfortable participating in your leisure activities