Addictions and not Being Mastered by Any



We see many secular and so called 'christian' groups that focus on addictions and although they do help people, they are unbiblical and against the Word of God.  

 See AA / Celebrate Recovery groups exposed here:
https://bewareoffalse-unbiblicalteachers.blogspot.com/2018/08/alcoholics-anonymous-exposed-vs-gods.html

We also see that not many professed believers will examine themselves to see if they have addictions (other than drugs, alcohol or porn) that have power over them; are they mastered by them. 

  God's Word teaches in 1 Corinthians 6:12

 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

 We are not to be brought under the power of anything except our Lord Jesus Christ and His Word.

 Let's look at some examples of potential addictions and what God's Word says.
This article is written for those who have already been separating themselves from the common sinful habits such as music, television/movies, drunkenness, drugs, pornography etc.  Our aim is to go a bit deeper into every day things that are necessary for life but can also master someone if not careful.

 * Food
We all have to eat to nourish our body but are we focused on nourishing it or focused on the food?
See an article here on gluttony:
 http://spiritandtruthdiscernment.blogspot.com/search/label/Gluttony%20Is%20A%20Sin

 And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Proverbs 23:2

 * Sleep and relaxation
Sleep and some relaxation are healthy for regeneration but are we languishing too long and therefore not redeeming the time? (Ephesians 5)

 The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour. Proverbs 21:25

 * Caffeine / coffee
God made all things on the earth and coffee can be very beneficial but have you found yourself under the power of it?  (1 Corinthians 6:12)

 * Shopping
In times past people were more self sufficient so shopping was not an issue, today we have thousands of various stores and products which can tantalize the flesh to lusting after new things (food, clothes, gadgets etc).

 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (1 JOhn 2:16)

 * Internet
The internet can be a good tool for ministry, business and looking up information (about homesteading, job related etc)  but can also be a temptation to spend too much time on it.  
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:15-17)

 * Exercise
This can be a good thing as born again believers are to take care of their temple of the Holy Spirit that indwells them but great caution should be taken as quite often obsession sets in and the focus falls from simple health to pride of looks.

 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. (1 Timothy 4:8)

 * Children
What a blessing from the Lord to be entrusted with a soul to be taught the things of God but oftentimes children become an idol.

 As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths. (Isaiah 3:12)

 * Pets
They can be a good asset to a farm or used as guard dogs and there is nothing sinful in having a pet unless you are held in bondage to it or treat it equal to a human.

 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. (Romans 1:25)
Read an article here : http://spiritandtruthdiscernment.blogspot.com/2014/04/paganism-and-pets.html
* Leisure time and hobbies
Times of refreshing activities can be beneficial such as camping, fishing, hiking with your family; crafts, woodworking etc until they master your time and thoughts.

 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. (1 Corinthians 13:11)

 This is not an inclusive list but it should be enough to help people learn how to look into their everyday lives and activities and examine them to be sure we are walking in the Spirit not the flesh (Romans 8) and in taking every thought captive...

 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Let us know how we can help you? 

God be praised
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