Addiction

Being addicted to something is defined as, “physically and mentally dependent on a particular substance, and unable to stop taking it without incurring adverse effects.” 

Addiction comes in all different forms and behaviors. Some people are addicted to sex, some to money, and other’s alcohol/drugs. When media outlets talk about addiction these are the areas that are most likely described. Over and over again we relate addiction to these harmful and immoral behaviors. When we think about people being addicted to these things, we judge them, look down upon them, and act like they are beneath us. What social media overlooks are the simple daily activities that individuals become reliant on. 

The definition of addiction in my own opinion is the physical and mental aspects of society and life that distract us and take time away from teachings of God and our relationship with Him.

Over the years, I have found that I am addicted to running, lifting, and playing sports. I love to work out and stay in shape, but it has gotten to the point that I have to do it every day. When I am not able to fit working out into my daily schedule, I get angry and turn into a completely different person. If I had planned to do a workout at a specific time and my mom asked me if I could do something for her instead, I would complain and put up a fight. It has gotten to the point where I must workout every day to feel productive and so that I feel good about myself. 

You might be thinking, “is this girl really comparing being addicted to working out to addictions like alcoholism “or “There are a lot of worse things to be addicted to then working out.” But the truth is, at the end of the day all of our addictions are equally as bad. All addictions enhance and glorifie substances, activities, or object and portray them as more important than our God. 

At this time you might now be thinking of something in your own head that has taking the forefront of your life. This might be something you have found your own self to be addicted to. An activity that takes away time from bible study, thoughts that block your relationship with God, or even time to go to church and worship.

It is acceptable to partake in daily activities that you enjoy and to be passionate about them, but it is important that we realize that God is most important. Instead of going out shopping for the third time this week or going out to dinner with your friends for the tenth time this month or making sure you go for a run 7 days in a row, make time to spend with God. Leave your material and societal addictions and create an addiction to our Almighty Savior. He should be our forefront, today and every day.