Addiction. It’s a word that’s gained a lot of attention these days. Addiction to the Internet, pornography, drugs – both prescription and over the counter, alcohol, nicotine, gambling, shopping, chocolate, and… dare I say it?
Caffeine.
Don’t get me wrong. I really enjoy a steaming hot cup of brew, especially on those chilly mornings. Sometimes a hot cup of chai hits the spot. Sweet tea in the summer? I love it. Do I treat myself occasionally at the local coffee shop? Yes, I do. But not all the time.
It’s so easy to make jokes about our inability to function without coffee (or insert your favorite caffeinated beverage here). However, I think that we might not realize just what that admission really means.
Is it possible that something can be intrinsically acceptable, yet become sinful?
Paul wrote: “All things are lawful for me; but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful for me; but I will not be brought under the power of any”, 1 Corinthians 6:12.
If I am under the power of anything, then I lack self-control. Christians are commanded to exercise self-control (Galatians 5:22,23; 2 Peter 1:5-9; 1 Corinthians 9:25).
Sure, the memes are funny. But perhaps they reveal more than was intended.
Just give it some thought. Be honest with yourself.
Maybe it’s time to put that coffee pot away.
Maybe it’s time to drive past, rather than drive-thru, your favorite coffee establishment.
You don’t have to never drink coffee… or tea… or… , but prove to yourself that you are not dominated by it; that you’re not under its control.
If I am unable to begin my day or find it impossible to function without _______________, then I am dominated by that substance; I am under it’s power.
And that’s not okay.
