When most of us think about the word addiction, it really carries a negative connotation. Yet, I am convinced that all of us have (to a greater or lesser extent) some kind of addiction in our lives. Most people I know, me included, as well as those I have worked with and counseled, tend to hang on to their own “obsessions” in one way or another. And, once we get used to it, it is easy to justify its existence and become, well, addicted. In today’s society it is easy, because we have a lot of time on our hands to Facebook and spam each other. It also seems that the people who obsess about certain aspects of their lives or passions are the ones who get a lot of notoriety.
Normally when we use the term, we think about negative obsessions, like drugs, alcohol, sex, etc. As a society we are not as quick to consider positive aspects of our lives as addictive, because they are productive and labeled success, fame, fortune, role model and the likes. Yet they can and will consume you just as quickly and to an even greater degree because there is no social stigma attached. I can personally attest to the fact that the exhilaration of personal achievement and recognition can cause you to become an adrenalin junky just as quickly as jumping out of an airplane or bungee jumping.
Take a moment and think about what consumes and demands the majority of your time, finances and energy. For most of us it is a hobby, job or school. It is where we get our “fix.” Now, I am not saying that any of those things are bad. In many cases they are necessary for our well-being. Additionally, Solomon says the best a man can hope for: is to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil (Ecclesiastes 2:24).
The Bible says plainly that we are to run the race to win (1 Corinthians 9:24). However, it also says the key to doing things God’s way is by seeing how much good you can do without getting caught (Matthew 6:1 – 6). So, where is the balance? You guessed it – in the Heart Matters we discussed a few days ago. And, heart matters require work, balance and attention. That is where we can lose perspective quickly, especially if our environment and/or culture promotes our addictions.
Let’s consider a couple examples. Someone who is not loved, praised or encouraged adequately at home will gravitate to a place where they can get recognition or praise. On the other hand, if a person is pushed, demeaned or ridiculed at home, the same thing will happen but for different reasons. Hobbies, school or work can become an addiction because it is often a place where performance is applauded. Each time the praise gets louder the addiction or need for more praise at a higher level becomes stronger. Soon the magnitude of the rush is no longer attainable.
You know that I have never, nor will I, push you toward a certain type of education, hobby or job. I want you to follow the desires of your heart. I want you to have what God wants you to have – what He created you to enjoy. But, you must be careful to not obsess over it. You know that I have done so with my work at times – well most of my life. I’ve used the excuse of responsibility. Well, the recognition IS addictive and self-serving. After a period of time it gets old and you lose your joy if you are not careful. The key is letting God balance your objectives by developing the Fruit we discussed. Include other’s joy and accomplishments to help you find that balance. Then the joy never goes away and you will always have someone to share it with. Life is always more fun with someone you love and cherish, even (especially) if you are not in the spotlight. I think the Bible says something about living a quiet life (1 Thessalonians 4:11).
Love Dad.