Am I Developing A “LIFE-CONTROLLING” Problem?

SOURCE:  Living Free

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 NLT

One road sign–or symptom–of a developing life-controlling problem is a growing anticipation of a behavioral practice or substance, leading to preoccupation. On the job, while driving or during the daily routine, thoughts turn to a substance or behavior. The substance could be alcohol, drugs or food. The behavior might involve pornography, illicit sex, gambling–or even common things like shopping or working, which can become an obsession.

Here are some indicators of preoccupation:

• The mind is increasingly filled with thoughts of the substance or behavior.
• Vacation times and other recreation are planned around the substance or behavior.
• There is a growing need for the substance/behavior in times of stress.

During times when there is not much else going on, do you find yourself thinking about and planning a time when you’ll be able to use or practice? Have you ever found yourself planning a vacation or everyday leisure on the basis of how it would serve the need of your life-controlling problem?

Are you willing to ask God to transform the way you think?

Father, I know I’ve been thinking about this thing altogether too often. I didn’t want to admit that it’s beginning to control my life … but if I’m honest with myself and you, I realize I have a problem. Please forgive me and help me begin to refocus on you and your Word. Transform the way I think and help me become the person you want me to be. In Jesus’ name …

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These thoughts were drawn from …

Insight Group: Discover the Path to Christian Character by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min.