In my free time, I love to read the newspaper, visit with my grown kids and grandkids, and spend time with my wife. One of my favorite hobbies is reading, especially books on Church history. And because I worked at an international bank, I read about finances, investments, and the economy. Hobbies are a great way to unwind and relax, but when they become more important than our faith, or if our hobbies aren’t God-honoring, they can become a real danger.

I knew a man named Josh who was consumed with weightlifting. So much so, that it seemed to take over his life. He began skipping time with the Lord in order to get another workout in. Thankfully, Josh realized he was neglecting what truly matters – Jesus - and he turned things around. He kept up with his workouts, but he became more balanced.

Another person, a woman named Sara, spent nearly all of her free time shopping. She enjoyed going to the mall and buying new things. But in time, her shopping habit became a liability to her family. She wasn’t saving money—just spending it. This, of course, isn’t what the Bible calls being a “good steward” of resources. Eventually, Sara realized her habit was destructive, and she replaced spending money with spending time with the Lord, and saving the cash.

The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” As you consider your hobbies, look at them through this lens. This is Luis Palau.