Addiction

Addiction is the consequence of sin

2 Peter 2:19 NLT

19 They promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves of sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you.

See also Jn 8:34

Addiction to food, alcohol or drugs is to become dependent upon them

Philippians 3:18–19 NLT

18 For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.

See also Is 5:11; Is 28:7–8; Is 56:12; Tt 2:3

Addiction to wealth is to be controlled by it

Mark 10:21–22 NLT

21 Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

See also Mt 26:14–16; Ac 16:19; Ac 24:26; 2 Pe 2:15

Addiction never satisfies

Addiction to sinful habits does not satisfy

Romans 6:20–21 NLT

20 When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. 21 And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom.

Addiction to food, alcohol or drugs does not satisfy

Ecclesiastes 6:7 NLT

7 All people spend their lives scratching for food, but they never seem to have enough.

See also Pr 20:1; Pr 21:17; Pr 23:20–21; Pr 23:29–35; Ho 4:10–11

Addiction to wealth does not satisfy

Ecclesiastes 5:10 NLT

10 Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness!

See also 1 Ti 6:9–10; Jas 5:1–3

The answer to addiction: self-control through the new life in Christ

Pr 23:1–4; Ro 6:6–7; Ro 6:11–14

See also Pr 25:16; Ro 6:16–19; Ro 8:12–15; 1 Co 6:12; 1 Co 9:27; Ga 5:22–23