Can't Serve God & Entertainment: The Dangers of Divided Loyalty

You Can't Serve God and Entertainment

Do you find yourself constantly seeking entertainment? Whether it's binge-watching your favorite shows, scrolling through social media, or indulging in video games, entertainment has become an integral part of our lives. In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, we have access to entertainment at our fingertips. But have you ever stopped to consider the impact this constant pursuit of entertainment has on your relationship with God?

Confessions of a Slave

If I'm honest, I have been a slave to frivolous entertainment. I have used it as a means of escape from the realities of life - the guilt of sin, difficulties in relationships, and the anxieties of the world. I would turn to entertainment to distract myself from these issues, seeking comfort in a world of fantasy. But in doing so, I realized that I was neglecting my relationship with God and serving two masters.

The Dangers of Serving Two Masters

In Matthew 6:24, Jesus says, "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other." This powerful statement highlights the danger of trying to serve both God and entertainment. When we prioritize entertainment above our relationship with God, we risk neglecting the spiritual nourishment and growth that comes from seeking Him wholeheartedly.

Entertainment can easily become an idol in our lives, taking up the time and energy that should be devoted to God. It can distract us from prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. When we constantly seek entertainment, we are essentially saying that it is more important to us than our relationship with God. This is a dangerous path to tread, as it can lead to spiritual complacency and a lukewarm faith.

Biblical References on Prioritizing God

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God above all else. In Deuteronomy 6:5, we are commanded to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This commandment requires our wholehearted devotion to God, leaving no room for divided loyalty.

Jesus also teaches us in Matthew 22:37-38 that the greatest commandment is to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." This all-encompassing love for God leaves no space for entertainment to take precedence in our lives.

Additionally, in Colossians 3:2, we are urged to "set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." This verse reminds us to fix our thoughts on eternal matters and not be consumed by the temporary pleasures of entertainment.

The Balance between Enjoyment and Worship

It is important to note that entertainment itself is not inherently sinful. God created us with the capacity to enjoy and appreciate various forms of entertainment. However, we must exercise discernment and moderation in our consumption of it. We must not allow entertainment to become an idol or a hindrance to our relationship with God.

One way to ensure that we maintain a healthy balance is by aligning our entertainment choices with biblical principles. Philippians 4:8 instructs us to dwell on "whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable." When we apply these criteria to our entertainment choices, we can enjoy them in a way that honors God and uplifts our spirits.

Seeking God's Will in Entertainment

As Christians, we are called to seek God's will in all aspects of our lives, including our entertainment choices. This means being intentional about what we consume and evaluating whether it aligns with God's values and principles.

It can be helpful to ask ourselves questions such as: Does this form of entertainment glorify God? Does it promote values that are consistent with the teachings of Jesus? Does it draw me closer to God or pull me away from Him? By critically examining our entertainment choices, we can ensure that we are using our time and energy in a way that is pleasing to God.

Conclusion

Entertainment has become a powerful force in our lives, often overshadowing our commitment to God. While it is not inherently sinful, it can easily become a stumbling block if we allow it to take precedence over our relationship with God. We must strive to maintain a healthy balance, using entertainment as a means of relaxation and enjoyment without allowing it to become an idol in our lives.

Let us remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." When we prioritize God above entertainment, we will find true fulfillment and joy in Him.