Learning outcomes

• Define leisure and distinguish it from laziness.
• Explain Biblical principles for using free time.
• Give examples of good leisure activities for Kenyan youths.
• Make a simple weekly leisure plan that honours God and helps others.

What is leisure?

Leisure = free time you use for rest, fun, learning, or serving others. It is not the same as laziness (which is doing nothing useful all the time).

Biblical principles to guide leisure

• Rest is God-given: God rested (Genesis) and commanded a Sabbath (Exodus 20:8–11). Rest helps us serve better.
• Balance and stewardship: Use time wisely — work, rest, and serve (Colossians 3:23; Ephesians 5:15–16).
• Keep things wholesome: Philippians 4:8 — think about what is true, noble and pure when choosing entertainment.
• Freedom with responsibility: 1 Corinthians 6:12 — some things are allowed, but not everything is helpful.
• Avoid laziness: Proverbs warns against idleness (Proverbs 20:13; 19:15).
• Use gifts for others: Serve in church youth groups, help at home, or join community projects (1 Peter 4:10).

Good leisure activities for Kenyan teens

What to avoid in leisure

• Harmful substances, violent games or music that encourage bad behaviour.
• Spending all time on social media or watching harmful videos — guard your mind (Philippians 4:8).
• Idleness that leads to trouble — don’t be idle every day (Proverbs warnings).
• Peer pressure: gossip, bullying or activities that disrespect parents or church.

Practical tips — plan your week

1. Make a simple schedule: school/homework, church/youth activities, 1 hour sport, 30 minutes reading or skill practice.
2. Set one day for rest or special family time (Sabbath principle).
3. Join a positive group at church or school (choir, sports team, drama).
4. Use holidays to learn a useful skill or to do community service.
5. Talk with parents about screen time rules and safe internet use.

Classroom activity (10–15 minutes)

In groups of 4: Each group lists 6 leisure activities students in your school enjoy. Mark each activity as: Good / Needs caution / Avoid. Give a short reason from a Bible verse or Christian value.

Memory verses

• Exodus 20:8 — "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy."
• Philippians 4:8 — "Finally, brothers and sisters, think about whatever is true, noble, right..."
• 1 Corinthians 10:31 — "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

Reflection & short prayer

Reflection questions: What is my favourite free-time activity? Does it help me grow or harm me? How can I use one hour each week to help others?