Modern Idols: Devotions From Time Of GraceSample

The idol of gaming It seems like just yesterday that the coolest arcade game ever was Pong, but I doubt that anybody ever got addicted to a slow bouncing ball and an electronic paddle. Today’s hi-res graphics, special effects, compelling story lines, and wham-bang game action have created armies of glaze-eyed near zombies who find their own preferred reality in the virtual world. How can you tell if you (or others in your family) love gaming too much? Do you know you spend too much time in front of the screen but can’t stop? Have you lost interest in human relationships because you’re so deep into the virtual world? Do you lie to others about what you’re up to? Are you risking your grades or job performance because of time spent gaming? Are you getting enough sleep to care for your body (a.k.a. the temple of the Lord)? Do you spend way too much money on consoles, games, upgrades, and online play? Do you care more about your progress in the game than progress in your life? Does reading your Bible now seem too boring and tame by comparison? Games can be fun, but reality has to come first. “Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense” (Proverbs 12:11). Are you a gaming addict? Do you have the courage to ask other people in your family if they think you have a problem? Is there someone you can trust to give your game controllers to for a week while you detox?