Articles
The Lure of the Couch
I will be the first to admit I have always enjoyed spending time sitting on a comfortable
couch. I enjoy the times I have sat visiting with family and friends. I enjoy it when I have time to
sit and watch a good movie or TV show. I know some people who think their couch is the perfect
spot to take a nap. Each of us has probably spent time sitting on a couch or maybe in our favorite
recliner. All of these things can be enjoyable and even good for us. However, the couch can also
be a lure that keeps us from doing things that we need to do.
The Bible warns us of the dangers of being lazy. A comfortable couch, with entertainment
right there for us in the form of video games, television, or even spending time with friends, can
be a powerful lure. In today’s world, with the threat of the virus, we receive mixed messages
telling us that we need to try and live a normal life, while also telling us to stay home and away
from people. This may have led us to the feeling that we have been given permission to sit on the
couch even more than we did before.
No matter what is going on in the world or in our own lives, one thing should remain our top
priority, making every effort to secure our salvation (Philippians 2:12-13). Living the Christian
life takes time and effort from us. The Hebrews writer tells us the importance of continuing to
grow in our faith, not becoming lazy or complacent, and the dangers of falling away. “We want
each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully
realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience
inherit what has been promised” (Hebrews 6:11-12).
Don’t let your couch lure you into doing nothing. God expects us to work and bear fruit
(John 15:1-6).
~Brad Tolbert
