HomeWord - Aug. 21, 2009

Addiction to Activity 
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

You may say, "I am allowed to do anything." But I reply, "Not everything is good for you." And even though I am allowed to do anything, I must not become a slave to anything. 
—1 Corinthians 6:12 (NLT)

What is all the commotion about? It seems that everyone is rushing about, trying to work through their "to-do" lists so that they can…add more items to their "to do" lists. Let's have some perspective here! We are not doing ourselves any favors by living life at supersonic speed. Today, we cram more and more activity into our lives because our culture encourages us to do so and because we can.

This addiction to activity has also infected the church. It's wonderful that so many churches today can offer a wide variety of ministry services in order to address a wide variety of life issues. But, far too many Christ-followers cram their schedules with too many (good) things: ministry meetings, program meetings, small group Bible studies, accountability groups, recovery groups, and even meetings to plan more meetings! And, as a result life loses its balance.

Remember, just because we can do something, doesn't mean we should! Busyness for busyness sake—even when the busyness is ministry oriented—is counterproductive at best, and just plain sinful at worst.

When I look at Jesus' life, I see a man who was not ruled by His schedule. He seldom seemed rushed. For instance, I love that while He pursued plans, he would welcome interruptions from people in need. From what we know, Jesus never said anything like this to anyone, "I'm sorry, I can't help you. I need to be in Jericho by sundown." Wouldn't it be refreshing to cut back on our pace of activities and actually live more like Jesus? Wouldn't it be helpful to become more of the salt and light that Jesus called us to be in our neighborhoods and communities and spent less time in activities and meetings just talking about it?

Today, give some thought to the pace of your life. If necessary, begin the process of weeding out activities from you life that may be good, but actually prevent you from living a balanced life.

GOING DEEPER: 

1. What good activities are you involved in that could actually be (or become) obstacles to your spiritual health and effectiveness in serving Christ?
2. Are you simply too busy? If so, what steps can you take this week get your schedule under control?

FURTHER READING: 
Luke 7:11-17; 10:38-42; Matthew 5:13-16; Psalm 46:10

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