I love summer! It feels like an extended Sabbath — a time to step back from the business and take time to rest. But there’s a problem: I’ve found that more fun, more adventures, and more leisure doesn’t always lead to more prayer. I can get caught up in the summer moments and forget about God. My favorite time of year can lull me into a spiritual slumber.

On a walk through our neighborhood’s green space, I noticed an invasive species growing beside the path. The Giant Hogweed, already about three feet tall, looked innocent enough, but its poisonous sap can cause burns that leave scarring for years. An unaware child or jogger could easily brush up against it and suffer terribly.

The season of summer fun and recreation is not without its dangers. It can be fertile soil for certain vices that poison our relationship with God: neglect of prayer, an attitude of self-sufficiency, worshiping recreation instead of the Creator. If allowed to grow, these vices will lead to spiritual apathy.

It's OK to enjoy the extra leisure this summer, but remember to pray, turning each enjoyable moment into worship. How do we do that? It’s simple; when something brings a smile to our face we just pray, “God, thank you so much for this!” Let’s keep Jesus the center this summer and “serve him only” even when life feels good and carefree (Deuteronomy 6:13). Then this summer truly will be full of pleasure, the way God intended it.

Father, thank You for creating a wonderful world for us to enjoy this summer season. Please help me keep You at the center of all of my activities through offering thanksgiving. Amen.

Go Deeper — Bring God into the center of your recreation. Before and after your next fun activity, offer up thanks to God. Also, ask Him to help you connect with someone with whom you could start to model Christ and share Him.



Tags: Pleasure sabbath Deuteronomy 6
Photo Credit: Mi Pham