Addiction… It is rampant in our culture. Think you are immune?
You don’t have to have a drug problem to be an addict. It doesn’t have to be alcohol…or cigarettes, although those are some common ones.
I am addicted to caffeine. I like coffee, tea, cola, chocolate, chocolate, chocolate, and chocolate.
While I don’t share the addiction to television, I fear I am addicted to my computer and cell phone.
I don’t have any addiction to drugs, neither prescription ones or illegal ones. I don’t frequent porn sites, and I am not a gambler.
The reason I can say most of that however, is not because of some special thing about myself. I have just stayed clear of those things, choosing instead not to take the chance on having a problem or becoming an addict.
I have seen addiction. I have seen its destruction. I have heard the justifications for them, the excuses, the blame-laying. But addictions aren’t anyone else’s fault. The circumstances may not be our personal choice, but our response to the situation is.
An addiction can be anything. When we desire a thing so much that we will do anything necessary to get it…that is an addiction.
And an addiction is idolatry. The addiction has become god.
“Do not run after other gods until your sandals are worn out and your throat is dry. But you said, 'It's no use! I love those gods. I must go after them.” (Jer. 2:25)
We go after all kinds of things. Compromising all kinds of things. Then all those things end up bringing us harm. The very things we have pursued and sacrificed our character and principles for become the opposite of what we were seeking. Instead of blessing us, they becomes a curse.
“….when you are in trouble, you say, "Come and save us!' So where are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come when you are in trouble!” (Jer. 2:17,18)
When the curse comes down on our head, we have no choice but to see the truth. The addictions in our lives bring nothing but trouble and heartache.
Praise God that His desire to restore us never changes.
"Return to me. I will heal you.”(Jer. 3:22)
Hallelujah.
