Definition of Addict: “To apply or devote oneself persistently or habitually; to cause to pursue or practice continuously; one who is addicted to some habit, especially to the use of narcotic drugs. Accustomed; inclined to the pursuit, practice, or taking of anything. One is addicted to that which he has allowed to gain a strong habitual, enduring hold on him.” (Funk & Wagnalls)
As I reviewed the definition of addict/addiction I realized we are all addicts. We may be addicted to our job, our hobby, a sport, a relationship, a food, to luxury, or any number of things. I got to thinking about my addictions:
- Coffee
- Wonderful Food
- Reading, Books
- Busyness
- Children – Grandchildren
- Control
Now, not all these are bad addictions but they can be if I focus more on them than on my relationship with God. Our God is a jealous God and nothing is to come before Him. If we put other things or relationships first we cannot experience the intimacy with Christ that God intended.
Exodus 20:5: “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”
Years ago, I read fiction novels. Whenever I started one, everything else took a back seat. I was into the story and had to see it to the end to find out what happened. I had quite a collection of these books until I was convicted of the time I spent reading them. What did they really profit me anyway? There was nothing in them that helped me on my spiritual journey or educated me in the ways of The Lord. They had to go. I made a vow not to read secular books again and I have kept that promise.
Even spiritual books can consume our time leaving us little time to read God’s Word. In 2014, maybe you would like to examine yourself along with me. What has come between you and God? How is your time spent? What do you pursue or practice above your pursuit of God?
I found myself addicted to my children. Trying to fix them, guide them, prevent them from hardships in life, control their choices, and protect them from being deceived by the evil one. I made so many mistakes and often prevented God’s plan in their lives due to my addiction of control. I was out in the wee hours search-ing for our son, or standing at the window hoping and praying that his lights would crest the hill, and then get up and go to work on little sleep the next day. That sure didn’t help me or him. Instead of giving him to the Lord, I was attempting to fix it. It never worked till he was ready to make better choices for himself.
Sometimes, I see some of you struggling with the same things. It took me so many years to let go and let God work. I understand your ad-diction to your addict, but there is a better way. En-trust your loved one to God. I am now watching Him work in ways I never imagined. I want that for you, my friends. But just like with our children, we can advise but we can’t make their choices. It will be a choice you make for yourself.
On Wings will continue to pray for your freedom in Christ to be realized, just as we pray for your prodigal. Make the choice to get healthy for you and allow your prodigal the same choice.
Sandra