Games

<<amusements>>

Some of these leisure activities develop mental ability, others physical skills, while some are enjoyed just for relaxation. It is proven that regularly doing mental puzzles are beneficial to the brain and physical exercising keeps the body functioning better.

There is a place for healthy competition, but not winning at any cost. Fairness, consideration for less experienced players, having interaction and fun with others, besides being a gracious loser when you don’t win are all part of being a good sportsman. Participating will make you more socially adapted and your self-esteem will receive a boost. Practicing to achieve often brings a favourable outcome from the extra input.

Some computer video games involve fantasy and have an evil occult influence which should be avoided for our activity should bring glory to God and help us grow in the knowledge and grace of Christ (1 Cor 10:31). We need to address the question, will playing video games build up my love for God, be of value to others, uplift my spirit and

Do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature – Galatians 5:13

so be a praiseworthy activity? "Everything is permissible – but not everything is beneficial or constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others" (1 Cor 10:23,24). Mindful that we will give account of our time, we need to be "making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil...don't live for human passions but for the will of God...If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (Rom 14:12; Eph 5:16; Col 4:5; 1 Pet 4:2; 1 Jn 2:15-17). The Bible encourages us to think about good wholesome things and set our hearts on things above, not on earthly things (Phil 4:8; Col 3:1,2). A hallmark of the final days is people will be "lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God", because they do not have a higher purpose than to enjoy life before death (2 Tim 3:4). Has becoming a child of God made a significant difference in my total outlook on life? Paul said he considered everything worthless compared with knowing Christ in an ever-increasing way (Phil 3:7-10). Games played ‘against machines’ can lead to anti-social behaviour, while interaction with other people and especially your children, can develop many positive skills and wholesome bonding. We should aim for a healthy balance between work and recreation, yet even in times of relaxation and escapism from the challenges of life it is wise to choose good, praiseworthy and uplifting activities by always keeping eternity in view.

It is vital in the ‘game of life’ to put your best into it, to obtain a crown that will last forever (1 Cor 9:24-27).  Don’t allow anyone to cut you out or allow yourself to be entangled or hindered or disqualified but rather fix your eyes

The ‘game of life’ has a serious outcome

on Jesus (Gal 5:7; Heb 12:1,2). Living life ‘to the full’ and making it count for God is a serious matter not a causal recreational issue 'if I have time for it' pursuit.

See also: escapism, exercise, fun, leisure, relaxation, sports.