I love to read. In my home, I have an entire wall of bookshelves packed with books, most of which I’ve already read at least once. My nightstand always holds a book or two and I have several more in the queue. I enjoy reading before bed, reading in the car (when I’m not driving, of course), and reading while soaking in the tub. I admit, my love of books borders on obsession.

Obsession is defined as: Something that occupies our mind or intrudes on our thoughts; A preoccupation with a person, idea or hobby.

People have all sorts of obsessions today: exercise, sports, social media, politics, golf, television, books, and many others. Whatever our obsession, we can’t imagine life without it. If we miss a day or two, we long for the opportunity to engage once again in our compulsion. An obsession is something we talk about, think about, and even dream about. But for several reasons, obsession can become a serious problem.

First of all, obsessions disrupt family relationships. People obsessed with work, scurry like a hamster on a wheel trying to land a six-figure salary, while their family is left on the back burner. Those obsessed with exercise, are often so self-focused they become not only physically, but emotionally distant from those they love. For some, exercise becomes a pseudo-religion. Inserting yourself into other people’s problems can become an obsession. I’ve known those who are so engrossed in searching out problems (other people’s problems) to solve or issues to champion, that their own children and spouse are left to fend for themselves.

 Obsession not only tears families apart, but it takes us away from God’s plan and purpose for our lives. It dilutes our effectiveness for the kingdom. If this idea of obsession sounds vaguely familiar, it should, especially if you’ve spent much time in the Word. In scripture, it’s referred to as, idolatry, which is anything we prioritize above God.

What is our purpose as Christ-followers?

The goal for every believer is:  To know and love God and to make him known to the lost world. Satan loves obsession because it pulls us away from this primary mission.

Am I saying Christians should engage only in overtly spiritual activities?  Surely God doesn’t expect us to sit and read our Bible all day long, does He? In our everyday lives we must go to work, shop for groceries, go to the dentist, and clean our house, right? Absolutely, we must. That’s life. But remember, the world is a mission field, and we are themissionaries. In other words, we must look for opportunities in our day to love and serve people—to engage with the lost world—to share the message of Jesus. In fact, Christians are the hands and feet of Jesus to this world.

Can someone be too heavenly minded?

It’s been said, one can be too heavenly minded to be any earthly good. But don’t be fooled. The most effective Christians are completely heavenly minded—obsessed only with loving and serving others, knowing God more deeply, walking in obedience to the Word, and sharing the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ. Being heavenly-minded is good!

We’re heavenly minded when take a friend who’s lost their spouse to lunch, and comfort them. We’re heavenly minded when we spend a morning at the food pantry helping to stock shelves. We’re heavenly minded when we exhibit grace at our workplace so that others will be drawn to Christ. We’re heavenly-minded when we use our gifts and talents for God’s purposes. We’re heavenly minded when we cook a meal for a sick friend or clean up a widow’s yard after a storm. We’re heavenly minded when we lovingly care for our husband and children. We’re heavenly minded when we work hard at our job with a good attitude and reflect the attributes of Jesus.

The Christian life is not a part-time job

If you find you only think about spiritual things on Sundays, perhaps it’s time to up your game. Begin to think spiritually throughout the week. Be intentional. Start your day by asking God to help you see the needs around you and to give you the boldness to act. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel. Pray for God to help you find time in the Word for study and reflection. Lead your family in reading the Bible, praying, and memorizing scripture. The Christian life is much more than simply attending church on Sunday.

Lest you think I’m against hobbies, I’m not. Hobbies are a fun part of life and can provide moments for spiritual conversation. For instance, playing golf with a friend may be a great opportunity to share Christ with him. While you’re at the gym, you can find a way to practically serve one of your regular gym buddies. You can pray with your running group before you head out on your morning run. God gave us many things in this world to enjoy and we should take advantage of them. It’s when a hobby becomes an obsession—an idol—leaving no time or space for the things of God, that it becomes a problem.

All believers, including myself, could be more focused on the mission of knowing God and making Him known. There’s nothing more important. Join me as I pray for guidance, review my priorities, examine my routines, and determine if anything in my life has become an idol. Then, let’s ask God to reveal our areas of weakness so we can make the necessary changes.

God will always make a way for those who desire to be more spiritually in tune with Him. Believers have the Holy Spirit to help us overcome our obsessions and redirect our priorities—no need to rely on our own strength. As we faithfully join God on His kingdom mission, we’ll no doubt witness the fruit of lives changed and experience joy, peace and purpose like we’ve never known. Let’s get with God’s program today!