Titus 1:7-9, HCSB
I've marked the phrase "not addicted to wine" in bold not to start a debate regarding alcohol, but rather to speak on addiction in general.
The topic is fresh on my mind because I'm currently working my way through what would be fair to label an addiction to a mobile game called Puzzle & Dragons. Even though I haven't spent money on the game, it's occupied an embarrassingly large portion of my time and thoughts lately. I've posted elsewhere about where I stand with the game, but wanted to take this opportunity to review Scriptures pertaining to addiction for my own benefit with hopes that others will find the reminder helpful.
Addiction is mentioned elsewhere in Scripture. Ephesians 5:18 is a popular verse on the subject, wherein Paul commands his audience: "And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit."
Regardless of the substance or activity to which a person is addicted, the end result is the same: That person cedes control to whatever it is they're addicted to, rather than giving control to the only rightful recipient: God.
This is a case where I struggle to practice what I preach and invite you all to help keep me accountable regarding how I spend my time. Please pray that I learn to manage my time more effectively and spend more of it--much more--doing the good works for which Christ has redeemed me, rather than squandering it. There's certainly a time and place for recreation (if I didn't believe that, I wouldn't be the President of the CGA!
), but it's clear that I need to spend more time on ministry and less on entertainment.