“All
things are not helpful… I will not be brought under the power of any.” (v.12)
With the growing use of cell phones, laptops and social media
sites, an increasing number of people are withdrawing deeper into cyberspace
every day. You can see them; in their cars, in the store, at dinner, on the job,
even in church, browsing their facebook page, sending a text message, twitting or
visiting some internet site. This begs the question, when has something
legitimately moved from enjoyment to addiction?
When people cling to activities despite negative effects, it
generally indicates addictive behavior. Another common indicator is a defensive
attitude when confronted in love about an overindulgence in some area.
Here in chapter 6, the apostle Paul reminds to be careful, “not to be
brought under the power of any.” It takes humility to admit that our enjoyment
has become an addiction. Let's all check ourselves to make sure we are in control, and if in doubt, seek God’s help and direction.
The Truth
“Stand
fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be
entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1)
