Boredom. It is a word that we are getting to know very well during this time of necessary quarantine. The world’s population is being asked to stay home from work, play, school, travel, etc. and we humans have quickly gotten bored, at least I have, with no foreseen end to social distancing. Therefore, I think it might be wise to ask, “How are we as Christians supposed to handle our growing boredom?” Although the Bible may not specifically address boredom, it does warn us of the problems boredom can often produce; things like laziness and poor (hasty) decision making.

Proverbs 19:15, “Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.”

Proverbs 14:12, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”

What, therefore, does this mean for us? Among other things, it means that we, as Christians, have to be intentional in the use of our time when bored so as not to stray from the will of the Spirit. The Bible provides several verses that help us combat the undesirable effects of boredom:

Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men”

Colossians 4:2, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving”

1 Timothy 6:6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain”

Simply put, keep focused on spiritual priorities, preserve your daily prayer life, and find contentment in God and not the world. We must not allow boredom to hinder our spiritual walk. However long this virus lasts, let us keep working for the Lord, praying to the Lord, and finding our contentment in Him!