Looking for a quick rundown on what the Bible says about games? Well, you won’t find a verse that explicitly says “Thou shalt not play video games” or “Board games are blessed.” But that doesn’t mean the Bible is silent on the matter. It’s all about the principles—like using our time wisely, avoiding idolatry, and fostering love and unity rather than competition and division. Games, in themselves, aren’t bad. It’s how we approach them that counts. Are they becoming an obsession? Are they stirring up anger or discord? Or are they a way to relax, have fun, and bond with others? The Bible encourages us to examine our hearts and actions in everything we do, games included.
Got a minute? Dive deeper with us as we explore how Biblical principles can guide us in the world of games. You might be surprised at what you find!
What Does the Bible Say About Games?
When it comes to games, the Bible doesn’t lay down specific dos and don’ts. Instead, it offers guiding principles that can help us navigate our gaming habits in a way that honors God.
First up, let’s talk about stewardship. The Bible teaches that everything we have—including our time—is given to us by God, and we’re responsible for using it wisely. That doesn’t mean all play is frivolous; rest and recreation are important parts of living a balanced life. However, games become problematic when they consume time that should be spent on more important things, like connecting with God, serving others, or taking care of our responsibilities.
Then there’s the issue of content. Not all games are created equal. The Bible encourages us to fill our minds with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. Some games can actually help develop skills like strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving. Others, however, might glorify violence, promote sinful behavior, or foster unhealthy attitudes. It’s crucial to be discerning about the messages we’re absorbing.
What about the social aspect? Games can be a great way to build relationships, encouraging cooperation and mutual enjoyment. Yet, they can also lead to conflict, jealousy, and isolation if not approached with the right attitude. The Bible’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves applies even in the competitive world of gaming.
Lastly, there’s the concept of freedom in Christ. In the New Testament, Paul talks about how all things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial. This freedom means we’re allowed to enjoy games, but we should also ask ourselves whether they’re beneficial for our spiritual growth, our relationships, and our witness to others.
In essence, the Bible’s guidance on games boils down to using them in a way that aligns with Christian values: responsibly, discerningly, lovingly, and freely, always with an eye toward glorifying God in our actions and choices.
Bible Verses About Games
While the Bible doesn’t mention games directly, there are several verses that can help shape our understanding and approach to gaming:
- Ephesians 5:15-16 – “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” This verse reminds us to use our time wisely, which can apply to how we choose to spend our leisure time, including gaming.
- Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” This is a call to discernment in the content we consume, including the themes and messages in games.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This encourages us to consider whether our gaming—and how we conduct ourselves while playing—reflects our commitment to glorifying God.
- Galatians 5:22-23 – The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities should guide how we interact with others in gaming environments, promoting a positive and edifying experience.
- Colossians 3:17 – “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” This verse encourages us to approach all activities, including games, with an attitude of gratitude and as an offering to God.
- 1 Corinthians 6:12 – “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” Paul’s words here remind us to exercise self-control in our gaming, ensuring that it doesn’t become an addiction or hinder our spiritual growth.
- Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” In the context of games, this might mean choosing games that build up rather than tear down, and playing in a way that fosters community and friendship.
- Proverbs 12:25 – “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” This proverb speaks to the power of our words and actions, which is relevant in gaming environments where communication can either uplift or discourage others. It’s a reminder to be the source of encouragement and positivity in interactions, both online and offline.
- Hebrews 10:24-25 – “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Though this verse is about encouraging fellowship among believers, it can also apply to the way games are used to build community. It suggests that games, when used responsibly, can be a means to foster connections, encourage one another, and even spur on love and good deeds.
- 1 Peter 5:8 – “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” This verse, while cautioning vigilance against spiritual threats, also reminds gamers to be mindful of the potential for games to lead to unhealthy habits or expose players to negative influences. It calls for discernment and self-awareness in our entertainment choices, ensuring that they don’t open doors to harmful thoughts or behaviors.
Through these verses, we can gather that while the Bible doesn’t directly address games, it offers plenty of wisdom on how to approach them. The key is to engage with games in a way that aligns with Christian principles—using our time wisely, choosing content that uplifts, interacting with love and kindness, and always being mindful of the impact on our spiritual health and relationships.