Addictions Can Be Subtle

October 4, 2026

We all know what addiction is. By definition, an addict is someone who has a compulsive need to engage with someone or something. We usually think of addicts as someone who compulsively consumes drugs, alcohol, or some other substance, or engages in an action that is harmful or detrimental to them. Usually, the substances to which people are addicted are referred to as vices. In this context, a vice is something immoral or evil. Usually, when we think of addicts, we think of those people outside the church. But those inside the church are also susceptible to addictions, and sometimes the addictions that trip up Christians aren’t what we would normally consider vices. They are much more subtle than that. Here are a few subtle addictions that can creep up on Christians if we aren’t careful. First, there are Christians who are addicted to gossip. If only I had a dollar for every time I heard a Christian start a conversation with, “I really shouldn’t tell you this about Fred, but…” Too many times, we talk about Fred to everyone except Fred! God doesn’t like gossip. That’s why He gave us two ears and one mouth! Second, some Christians are addicted to drama. It seems like there is always something dramatic going on in their life, and they just can’t wait to drag you into it with them. A third possible addiction is living the life of a constant victim. A close cousin to this addiction is the addiction of being constantly offended. It seems nearly everyone you talk to has been wronged or offended in some way. I’m convinced that most of those offended don’t know they are supposed to be offended until someone else with the same addiction tells them they should be offended! Finally, I am convinced that many Christians are addicted to negativity. Every cloud in their life is dark, and there is absolutely no silver lining to be found anywhere. Their cup is so empty that they are mentally dehydrated! If we are honest with ourselves, we have all probably found ourselves on the guilty end of these subtle addictions. Here is a Bible verse that just might help. Paul tells us in Colossians 4:6 that Christians should: “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” Notice Paul doesn’t say, "Let your speech be with grace and seasoned with salt sometimes." No, he said always. All speech. I can’t speak for you, but speaking for myself, before I open my big mouth, I need to slow down and think about what I am about to say. Is it helpful? Does it honor Jesus? Does it lift up the person I am speaking to, or does it tear them down? Remember, Jesus said we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. If we are going to be effective witnesses for Jesus, we need to remember that.

Be blessed and then go be a blessing . . . Bro. Andy