2. The Problem of Boredom School is out and many are ready to go on vacation. After a short period of time, the children say “I’m bored” even though they have instant access to whatever game, music, movie or show they desire. How could this happen? But it is not just a problem with children, but also with many adults especially with many out of work. The problem of boredom can easily lead one to conform to this world rather than be transformed by God’s word (Rom. 12:2).

3. The Problem of Boredom This is a major spiritual problem in our society and each individual must deal with it. Do you have a problem with being bored? The Bible has the only answer to solve this problem. In this lesson, we will study the causes of boredom and how we can overcome it so that we can be faithful servants of God.

4. Boredom- Caused by Overindulgence with Pleasure Solomon did not withhold himself from any pleasure and afterwards concluded that it was unsatisfying, unprofitable, useless and like striving after the wind (Eccl. 2:1, 10-11). But we think that if we just buy that new car, the latest gadget, or follow the latest fashion trend, we will be happy. But it won’t happen. Why? Because the more goods we get, the more we want (Eccl. 5:10- 11), & then we don’t have a place to put them.

5. Boredom- Caused by Overindulgence with Pleasure False teachers exploit this by promising freedom to indulge yourself but it leaves you enslaved to sin (2 Peter 2:19). Like the forbidden fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, the devil wants to entice our minds with riches, pleasures, and lusts that will excite our desires (Eph. 2:2) but instead leads to groans of despair (Prov. 5:11) and pierces with many griefs (1 Tim. 6:9-10).

6. Overindulgence Leads to Laziness & being Neglectful The Bible warns about the sluggard who sleeps a lot, refuses to work and makes excuses for his idleness (Pr. 20:4; 26:13ff). There are many deadbeat dads, welfare moms, and others who neglect their God given responsibilities to work whether at a job or in the home.

7. Overindulgence Leads to Laziness & being Neglectful Watching a lot of TV perpetuates laziness or cause you to neglect the daily responsibilities you have. We are told, “Do not neglect doing good and sharing for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Heb. 13:16). We can learn a lot from an ant (Pr. 6:6-11).

8. Boredom is Solved by Diligence Overcoming boredom begins with changing our attitude. (Pr. 23:7; 4:23; 12:27) Before the prodigal son humbled himself before his father, he needed to realize that wealth and pleasure would did not satisfy him. He knew that his father provided for his slaves while he was starving with hunger. When he came to his senses, then he was diligent to confess his sins and become a slave of his father (Luke 15).

9. Boredom is Solved by Diligence Jesus demonstrated diligence in doing the Father’s will by dying on the cross for our sins (1 Peter 2:21-24). Realizing God’s mercy in Christ, be diligent to present yourselves approved to God by studying His word (2 Timothy 2:15). Do everything with zeal knowing that you will receive from the Lord a great inheritance. (Col. 3:23-24)

10. Boredom is Solved by Contentment The apostle Paul learned to be content in whatever state he was in because He could do all things through Christ who strengthened him (Philippians 4:13). We must learn that lesson also. We need to learn the truth that godliness with contentment is great gain because we cannot take anything out of this world. (1 Timothy 6:7-8)

11. Boredom is Solved by Contentment Are you content with living your life God’s way (being faithful to the Lord and waiting to have treasures in heaven) or man’s way (instant gratification which fails to satisfy and corrupts)? (Matt. 6:19-21; Eccl. 5:10-12) Sometimes it is better to have less than more (Proverbs 15:16-17; 16:8; 17:1).

12. Conclusion Solomon indulged all of his desires in pleasure and yet he hated his life. Thankfully he realized the truth that the whole duty of man is to “Fear God and keep His commandments” (Eccl. 12:13) He knew that, “God will bring every act into judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil” (Eccl. 12:14).

13. Conclusion Boredom can be overcome by cultivating a spirit of diligence in doing what is right and being content with God’s plan for your life. Heaven is worth the wait! If you know you are not living right, resolve to change today while you still have time and opportunity!