Everything in life has a practical limit. The quantity of food we eat, the amount of sleep we get, the length of time we can work, are common examples of areas in life that need our discipline and restraint. Excess in any of these things can cause a dullness of mind, or perhaps a more serious and permanent disability. All of us are different, and all of us must analyze and determine our needs and our capacity to impose the necessary limitation that will enable us to function Properly.
This is consistent with Scriptural teaching. “Moderation in all things” is the advice of Paul. How much better would our lives be if we would only heed these words! Most of us consider ourselves “temperate” in the affairs of life; that is, having once established a comfortable routine in providing for the necessities of life, we endeavor to avoid indiscriminate and wasteful use of time and money, and enjoy those things in life that are “of virtue” and “of good report.”
Now that in itself is an ideal that requires a considerable amount of discipline, especially in a society that provides the full spectrum of experience for those who have the inclination. Whatever our interest, be it virtuous or not, it can be pursued without restraint or interference in this liberal minded world.
But, assuming we have managed to rid our lives of the more gross and obvious sins, what are we to think of the different forms of recreation that surround us on every side? There are literally hundreds of things we can do. There are hobbies of every sort; there are countless books of genuine interest; fascinating places to be visited; family pursuits in things such as hiking, camping and local sporting activities for our children that demand our time and energy.
We are told that we need recreation. We are told that we need “change of pace”. We are urged to “get away from it all”. On every side there is the pressure to forget the serious issues of life and take up something “light”. Think of the success of the local bowling leagues, swimming clubs and golfing associations.
The question is asked: Is there not a practical limit to the amount of recreation we need? Have we reached an excessive point in the interests and diversions of life? To ask this question convicts many of us. It is sad to admit that many have readily yielded to the deception that balance and happiness are found in immersing themselves in activity, and that the pleasures of life enhance the character of man. Surely we are not all that weak and frail, surely the elements of modern life are not all that taxing. Is there not a peace of mind and joy in the service of God? If we have grown at all since baptism, there should be a certain confidence and resolution about our life’s that does not need to be abandoned for “light” things at every turn.
Summer is here again, and with it the long holiday week – ends and vacation periods. Are we anxious to get away? Many seats will be empty’ at the Memorial services. Some members will indeed be taking a needed rest, and others using the opportunity to help others or seek the spiritual advantage of Bible Schools. But many will find it convenient to “steal away unnoticed” to bask in the abundance of this life, unconcerned with the ecclesia left behind and careless of the damaging effect such indulgence is having upon themselves. What is your purpose? How is your time to be used? What are you leaving behind?
Ecclesias are desperate for teachers who can instruct the young and convince the gainsayer. Many activities of the truth go undone because brethren and sisters do not have the time and are “too busy”, yet a vast amount of time is lost in recreation. What about you? Are you “too busy” to take on another job for the ecclesia?
May it not be said to any who know better, “You have lived on the earth in luxury and pleasure; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter” (James 5:5, R.S.V.).
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One