Reflections on Faith, Addiction, and Change
You may have encountered a deeply devout Christian who says you can’t/shouldn’t do certain things—wear this, say that, play, sing, watch, etc. While they may be speaking the truth, such guidance must be applied to themselves as well. As Christians, we are called to preach, but the true essence of faith lies in the personal relationship between the individual (you) and God.
My Experience with Addiction
I was a video game addict my whole childhood until one and a half years ago.
An addiction is a consumption without control.
In the Bible, it says:
“Everything has its time” or “For everything, there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”
— Ecclesiastes 3:1
In my case, I was unknowingly (or knowingly) sinning for over 20 years.
Most of my time was consumed by video games.
Video games were my god.
But I thank God for my family members who are still alive and for the chance to create memories with them now.
A Question for Reflection
If I was a video game addict, what kind of addict might you be?
- Thoughts?
- Food?
- Verbal habits?
- Sexual behavior?
- Materialism?
- Drugs?
A Message of Criticism, Not Judgment
To be clear, I am not judging you. I may be criticizing, but I have already criticized and exposed myself.
I was also criticized for my own faults by someone who is incorruptible in all areas—God.
Thus, any criticism you feel through my words comes from God’s truth, revealed through my personal experience and through the Bible, not from me.
The Mind as a Guide
I’ve heard that the mind functions like a conscious being or organ, similar to the Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost.
It provides a systematic sense of right and wrong.
Example:
Imagine a curious baby placing their fingers in a closing door.
The baby (representing you or me) doesn’t understand the consequences of their actions.
The father (God), out of love and mercy, warns, advises, and teaches the baby about the results of their choices.
The baby learns—unless they are rebellious or stubborn (as some of us can be).
The Good News
This is the “good news”: to preach and teach the way of love from someone who loves us unconditionally and forever.
Time is ticking. There is still time to change, but not through your own strength—just as I learned when it came to my video game addiction.
Are Video Games Bad?
Are video games bad? No and Yes.
- Video games in themselves aren’t inherently evil.
- However, many games encourage behaviors like killing, stealing, and other negative habits.
If you’re not careful, those behaviors can influence your actions, and what was once neutral or fun becomes harmful.
Final Reminder
Be cautious and vigilant. Remember, God’s love and guidance are always available, even when we stumble.