Are You an Addict?
Most of the time when we think about addictions, we think about sinful vices or things that tear people down. Addiction is the application of one’s self habitually; the devotion of time and attention through constant practice. This leads to spiritual and physical harm when we idolize carnal desires and addict ourselves to them: alcohol, drugs, video games, food, entertainment, vanity, etc. In 1 Corinthians 16:15 however, we see a different kind of addiction:
“[15] I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) [16] That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth.” – 1 Corinthians 16:15-16
Every single person is addicted to something. Take a moment to reflect on how you spend your time, your resources, and your efforts. What are you addicted to? What things consume your time and attention consistently? Would people observing your life, as Paul did with Stephanas, say you are addicted to the ministry of the saints, or would they say you are addicted to serving some other idol?
When we addict ourselves to serving the Lord and the ministry of the saints, as the house of Stephanas did, it brings forth incredible fruit. When we addict ourselves to things that distract us from our mission to evangelize the lost and edify saints, it brings forth corruption.
“[7] Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. [8] For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. [9] And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” – Galatians 6:7-9
How do we begin to addict ourselves to the ministry of the saints?
It starts with redeeming the time we have (Eph 5:13-21). When you begin to use your time, resources, and efforts to serve the Lord, rather than yourself, an amazing thing happens: you start to care about it more. When you start studying your Bible, praying to God, engaging in edifying conversations, and preaching the gospel to the lost, you find yourself caring about the truth of God and the things of the Lord. You become zealous for good things, even when no one is watching.
“But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.” – Galatians 4:18
Crack open that Bible collecting dust on the shelf, pray to the Lord, and start talking about what you read with others. Be careful, sooner or later you might become an addict.
