For Fun

Randy and I were out for dinner and I was complaining about being worn out and tired. My hubby was doing a great job of listening and, after a long while, he finally spoke. He asked with that sly grin that told me he was on to something, “So, tell me, what do you do for fun?” I started to answer, when he waved his hand and stopped me. He explained, “I know you enjoy what you do in writing and teaching, but I’m not asking about that.” He then described his meaning of “fun” —it had to be a non-work-related hobby. Something I did just for pure fun. 

I had to admit, I didn’t do anything that wasn’t related to my work as a writer, Bible teacher, speaker, and publisher. I am the personality type that truly does enjoy work. Yet, as I pondered his question, I heard the Lord speaking into my weary heart. He used my husband to speak truth into my spirit. I was worn out and tired because I didn’t have non-work outlets for fun. I was all work and no play. 

I began to pray about this. The next Sunday as I read my bulletin (yes, I read everything), I saw an announcement for a scrapbook gathering. I thought, that would be fun. It’s not work-related, I said to myself. I went to that gathering and besides having fun, I also made new friendships. Next, I was sharing this with another friend, and she invited me to make cards with her. Before long I had not one hobby, but two. And you know what? My stress level reduced. I was no longer only focused on work, and I’d met new friends who were completely different than my writer friends. I was enriched by my new variety of friends. A side benefit I hadn’t expected was that I was also better at my work. Having a broader life experience because of my new friends, I was more patient, more compassionate, and more understanding. I became more human.

So, my dear friend, I ask you the same question. I know you are worn out and tired. I know you don’t have time for a hobby. I know…I really do. But if you are weary and tired, could it be that you are like I was—all work and no play? If you don’t know what to do for fun, ask God. He’ll show you. God, too, worked hard. But he took a whole day to rest. Likewise, Jesus worked hard, but he also enjoyed down time. I picture him whittling wood as he sat with the disciples at night as they laughed and shared stories. His father was a carpenter and whittling would have been a natural hobby. The Scriptures don’t tell us this is what Jesus did, but can’t you see it? We know Jesus fished, and it was a hobby. Jesus also told stories—He was a great storyteller. God desires all of us to be filled with joy, and part of joy is learning to enjoy downtime in new ways. 

So, what do you do for fun? Is there a hobby you’ve always dreamed of trying? Is there someone who does something you consider exciting but have never dared trying? 

Step out and give it a try. God is going to refresh you, but He may just be waiting for you to stop working and have some fun! Ask God to show you how to have fun…God knows you and He can help you find the perfect fun outlet for you.