Did you know that the definition of recreation is re-creation? What is the first word that comes to your mind when you hear the word recreation? Perhaps it is your favorite sport, vacation, or past-time activity. The purpose of recreation is to prevent “burn out.” Burn-out happens when you have gone from being tired and exhausted to complete fatigue, totally “out of gas” with no energy left.
What do you do for recreation? If your answer is “nothing,” you will eventually end up in the last category. Burn-out can be prevented! When you realize you are depleted physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually, it is time to put everything on hold. Rearrange your schedule. If it isn’t fun, don’t do it.
Isaiah 28:12
“…This is the rest wherewith you may cause the weary to rest and this is the refreshing.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
Recreation stimulates relaxation. Relaxation involves any activity that takes your mind off of your problems and restores your peace of mind. It gives your body an opportunity to rest and be refreshed.
- Change your routine and create some leisure time. Find something you enjoy doing and enjoy being lazy for a few moments… Take a walk with God. Think happy thoughts. Laugh at your own jokes…
- If your schedule cannot accommodate a “get-a-way,” take a fifteen minute break. Turn off your phone. Take deep breaths. Put an ocean scene on your screen saver. Plug in a fountain and pretend you are listening to the waves. This relaxation technique will re-create inner tranquility.
- Give yourself something to look forward to by planning ahead. Whether it is a family affair, time alone or time with God, it is time well spent.
Jesus said “Come to Me…and you will find rest, (relief, and ease and refreshment, and recreation, and blessed quiet) for your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29 (AMP)