Yes I like games. Those who know me personally know that my
love for games has existed ever since I could hold a controller. Some people are amazed that I didn’t emerge from the womb with a gamepad in my hands. If the rapture doesn’t occur in my lifetime, I plan for my tombstone to read “Game Over”.
Now, on my gaming profile is usually a spot for “Bio”, “Occupation” or “About Me” sections, on which I usually fill out something about Christ and the fact that I am a minister, and I have gotten a few expected inquiries, sometimes just curious and sometimes rather harsh, but it always breaks the ice which is what my goal is anyway.
You see some people think that I am being lazy by hanging out on gaming websites and playing the various games I have with people over the internet, but what people don’t understand is that it is quite good to be able to socialize with the gaming community and get to know them on a more personal level because this community is usually vastly overlooked by most churches and outreach programs…. In-fact a whopping zero is coming to my mind — I can’t even think of a single program designed to reach the gaming culture in any of the churches I have visited.
This is what the scripture is talking about in Colossians 3:17, which reads:
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
Do I get pleasure in gaming? Of course, I have a great time playing
with people from all over the world! Do I thank God for the fun and good times? You bet! Yet most importantly, I use it to open doors to share Christ.
Do I shove it in their faces? Of course not! We are called to be fishers… and anyone who has ever gone fishing knows that you have to be subtle and attractive with good bait in order to catch anything… If you go in with loud noises and disturbing the water too much, all of the fish flee!
Now this does not mean be deceptive… but in all you do show exceptional character! In my case… being a good sport whether I win by a wide margin or get my virtual carcass blown to bits. Be open and inviting to people, and have fun!
When we shine for Christ the opportunities come all by themselves without having to get in people’s faces. If we truly look to Jesus as our example, people were drawn to Him as He simply traveled and went about His work! He didn’t use any tricks, gimmicks or other deceptive devices, no that’s what the enemy would do.
So regardless of what you do in life, from work to games, do it for the Lord and watch the opportunities to share Christ come as you simply shine for Him.
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