We can probably all agree that interests = good but idols = bad. Interests are good because they’re a way of affirming and enjoying God’s good creation. (Don’t misread me, I’m not condoning an interest in internet hacking or anything illegal). So what gets you ticking? At the moment, I’m learning how to make bread at home. Anything better than the smell of fresh bread at home? No way.
But it can be quite a short leap from taking a hobby and turning it into an idol that distracts you from living the “other-centred” life. Especially if you really enjoy your hobby. So how do you know when that’s happening?
1. Think “time.” If my bread making is regularly stopping me from going for a beer with James, my non-Christian friend, then it may suggest I value it more than reaching out to others with the gospel.
2. Think “money.” How we spend our money indicates where our treasure is (Luke 12:34). Does that mean it’s wrong to buy tickets to the Rugby World Cup? No. But it’s probably worth tallying up how your spending on your interest compares with your giving to the gospel. The bottom line can be quite revealing.
I suppose it comes down to ordering. Let’s be passionate about our interests; let’s foster and grow them. But let’s make sure they never outgrow our love for the Lord, our love for his people and our love for those outside of the Kingdom.
One final thing. It’s possible to use our interests for others. Think of the Emmanuel football team. Those guys love the Lord and they love football. And what they’re doing is combining the two. As they do so, they’re reaching out to non-Christians and growing friendships with Christians. So there’s a challenge: how can you use your interest for the good of others?
