Are you a lazy believer? In a thought-provoking video, Todd Friel delves into Richard Baxter’s insights on 12 common time-wasters that can hinder Christians’ spiritual growth and effectiveness.
Idleness or Sloth
Richard Baxter identifies idleness or sloth as a significant time-waster for believers. While downtime is essential for recharging, excessive rest can hinder productivity and neglect responsibilities within the family and the local church.
Excess of Sleep
Do you find yourself hitting the snooze button more often than necessary? While rest is crucial, Christians should balance it with diligent work and kingdom-building activities rather than indulging in excessive sleep.
An Inordinate Adoring of the Body
While taking care of our bodies is important, excessive focus on appearance can distract us from serving God and others effectively. Christians should prioritize service to the King over excessive grooming and vanity.
Unnecessary Pump and Extravagance in Household
Decorating our homes and enjoying domestic comforts is permissible, but excessive focus on material possessions and entertainment can divert attention from Kingdom priorities.
Needless Feasting, Gluttony, and Drinking
Indulging in excess food and drink can lead to gluttony and distract from spiritual pursuits. Christians should exercise moderation and discernment in their consumption habits.
Pick a Little, Talk a Little
Engaging in idle gossip and frivolous conversation wastes valuable time that could be spent on more fruitful endeavors. Christians should guard their speech and use their words to edify and encourage others.
Vain and Sinful Company
Associating with companions who do not share Christian values can lead to unproductive conversations and behaviors. Christians should surround themselves with uplifting and spiritually minded individuals.
Needless Inordinate Sports and Games
While recreational activities are permissible, Christians should prioritize activities that contribute to their spiritual growth and service to others over excessive entertainment and leisure pursuits.
Excess of Worldly Cares and Business
Focusing excessively on worldly concerns and business matters can detract from Kingdom work and spiritual priorities. Christians should seek to balance their earthly responsibilities with their eternal calling.
Vain Ungoverned and Sinful Thoughts
Indulging in sinful thoughts and fantasies not only harms spiritual health but also wastes valuable time that could be spent on glorifying God and serving others.
Reading of Worthless Books and Unprofitable Studies
Engaging in pursuits that do not contribute to personal or spiritual growth can be a significant time-waster for believers. Christians should prioritize edifying literature and study materials that align with biblical principles.
An Unsanctified Ungodly Heart
Ultimately, an unsanctified and ungodly heart is the root of all time-wasting behaviors. Christians should cultivate hearts that are dedicated to glorifying God in all they do, mirroring the hardworking nature of Christ Himself.
Reflecting Christ’s Hardworking Nature
As believers, the ultimate motivation for diligence and hard work should stem from reflecting the hardworking nature of Christ Himself. Jesus labored tirelessly for the sake of everyone’s salvation, setting an example for Christians to follow in glorifying God through their actions and attitudes. Christians should heed the warnings of Richard Baxter and strive to be diligent workers in the Kingdom of God, prioritizing eternal values over temporal distractions.
Source: Wretched
