I have played lots of golf in my life. Have I played too much? Maybe. Nevertheless, I have immensely enjoyed many facets of the golfing experience. However, like anything in life, the most crucial question is: Has this truly glorified God through Christ? Have I played golf at times when I did not glorify God? Absolutely! Thankfully, all those sins are covered as I embrace Christ as my God-given substitute. Golfing can indeed glorify Christ. I suggest the following ways that it can magnify God in my life.
- Golfing can be a worshipful experience of our majestic Creator. Being outside in various weather patterns basking along side the green grasses, lush vegetation, and different forms of water can all excite the soul to praise our wonderful God.
- Golfing can be great exercise. It is obvious, that while we are able, we should be very active with our bodies. The good effects are plentiful. While renting a golf cart is sometimes unavoidable, walking can be sheer pleasure. Walking 18 holes (hopefully straight down the fairway!) is usually a 4-5 mile walk.
- Golfing can be a meaningful time of reflecting on God and on myself. That is, occasionally, I golf by myself. As I have 2-4 hours of quiet time, this can be a perfect time to think about glorious truth and pray earnestly to our all-sufficient God.
- Golfing can be a meaningful time to interact with others. I have played much with friends and strangers. To be sure, during the 2-4 hour time span, there is some actual talk of golf, but there is certainly a limit to that discussion. Thus, the conversation can often take a Godward direction. This takes initiative on my part. Do I always do this? Sadly, no. That is to my shame. God has appointed these times with friends and strangers. I can’t waste these precious opportunities.
- Golfing can surely be a means of growth in our maturity in the Christian life. In playing golf, I have very tangible opportunities to grow in humility, patience, self-control, and other traits that are the fruit of the Spirit working in me. In addition, the many aspects of the golf game are a terrific analogy of our life experience.
If these things are transpiring while I play golf, I can definitely glorify God through Christ, which is the ultimate aim of life.
