1 Corinthians 9:24 English Standard Version (ESV) Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.

Given the competitive nature of man, the desire to prove himself in nearly every aspect of life, it is apparent that completion preceded these references by Paul to the people of Corinth. He uses the image that is well known to demonstrate biblical principles. There are however other aspects of games in which biblical principles can apply.

Common interests offer opportunities to establish friendships. They are trust builders in that when we agree with another, a barrier of trust is established to defend each other from outsiders. Rivalries are formed and being in that circle of friends gives opportunity to expose them to other traits and interests besides “the game”. It allows them to get to know who you are in Christ on a non-adversarial basis.

If “the game” is their only interest it lends to the opportunity to explore why. I have known a group of individuals in past times that had no interest in changing the subject. People who are so absorbed in “the game” that they have no room for anything else, are in need of God. We are not meant to be controlled by interests. That is a void that can never be filled, it can only be fed.

The game cannot love you. It can only entertain you. Entertainment is only an escape from life, it is not life itself. We can and do desire escape from reality when pain and suffering is all we see of life. It is unhealthy to constantly feed one vision after another. That is how world views distract us from God’s purpose for our lives.

God’s purpose can only be discovered after we have found God.

How will our friends know of Him if we do not tell them?