Recreation and Spiritual Renewal

True recreation is far more than mere amusement or escape from responsibility. It is the sacred opportunity to be re-created in spirit—refreshed, reinvigorated, and refocused for the purposes God has set before us. When we step back from the pressures of daily life, we open space for the Holy Spirit to restore our souls and renew our minds.

Renewal for Body and Soul

Recreation is 'time out', free of other responsibilities, to be re-created; of relaxing, to be made anew in spirit, refreshed, reinvigorated and refocused. Time away from the pressures and demands of life should not be a time to relax our standards by dabbling in questionable activities, either believing it is the acceptable thing to do, or justifying it because 'I deserve it... I'm just having a good time... letting my hair down'. Although we are 'off-duty' from other obligations we are never off-duty in our walk with the Lord, nor is the Devil taking time-out from his subtle schemes to gain the advantage over us (1 Tim 5:13; 1 Pet 5:8). Spare time activities should restore us mentally and physically so we can tune in more clearly to the spiritual realm besides refreshing us for our daily life. Do these activities bring us closer to God or not? Jesus Himself took time out for this reason (Mt 14:13; Lk 5:16).

We are made social creatures so there should be some interaction with others but also time alone for us. Be mindful of others and do not neglect your responsibilities, especially to your own family. Often the most loving thing we can do for them is to ensure their emotional needs are being met – this may call for a sacrifice of our plans to just 'be there' for someone else.

Build times of physical, mental and spiritual recreation into your schedule

We all need regular time away from the pressures and demands of life for the sake of our own well-being and health. Just as our bodies require rest and sleep to function, our minds and spirits need intentional breaks to recover from stress. Without these rhythms of rest, we become depleted, irritable, and less able to serve others well. Taking time out is not selfish; it is a necessary part of being a healthy, whole person who can continue to love and serve faithfully.

Take time out from pressure for your own well-being and health's sake

Redeeming Your Free Time

Don't fritter your time away on unedifying entertainment, use it profitably to pursue your relationship with God (which is eternally rewarding), for further study, preparation and advancement in the areas of your ministry and by also reaching out in a relaxed, informal way to others with the love of Christ, be they Christian or non-Christian. Build friendships through being together and doing something mutually enjoyable so you can 'speak' the Word of God into their lives as opportunities present themselves.

We unconsciously take on the values and habits of those we mix with and the influences we expose ourselves to, so use your 'free' time wisely. Participating in sports, exercise, and hobbies can contribute positively to one's well-being; however, it is important to ensure these activities do not assume undue priority, potentially overshadowing other significant aspects of life, including the first place that God should occupy.

Don't let recreation become an idol

As Paul reminds us, 'All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable' (1 Cor 6:12). Even wholesome pastimes can become harmful when they take control of our time, energy, or affections. We must not allow any leisure activity to become a master over us.

Whatever we do, it should be done for the glory of God, with a clear conscience, and knowing we are answerable for all we think, say and do (Mt 12:36-37; Rom 14:12; 2 Cor 5:10).

Ensure any long-term involvement doesn't erode your fellowship with others (Heb 10:25). There needs to be a balance in every aspect of our lives.

Reflection and Application:

Which of your regular leisure activities truly restore your soul, and which merely distract or entertain? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any pastime that dulls your hunger for God.
What practical boundary can you set this week to ensure that hobbies, sport, or screen time never erode your devotion to Christ or your presence with family?
Who around you needs the gift of your relaxed, unhurried friendship? Plan a shared activity that creates space for the love and truth of Jesus to emerge naturally.
How can you reframe your next day off—not as escape, but as an act of worship? Commit it to God in advance, asking Him to fill it with whatever deepens your love for Him and others.

See also: accountability, balance, fun, idol, leisure, refresh, relaxation, sports.