Addiction and Worship: A Call to True Glory
In today’s culture, many struggle with addiction, a term that often evokes thoughts of dependency or substance abuse. However, addiction is ultimately an issue of worship, as The Association of Certified Biblical Counselors explains in their article “The Theology of Addiction: We Become What We Worship”. Let’s explore how this connection between addiction and worship shapes our understanding of human nature and our path to true freedom in Christ.
Designed to Worship
Humans were created with a natural longing for glory, meant to draw us toward God. In Genesis, the creation reflects God’s glory and invites worship directed at Him. But, as Romans 1 illustrates, when this worship shifts away from the Creator to created things, it forms the foundation for addiction.
The Root of Addiction: Worship Distorted
The Fall reveals that sin distorts worship. Instead of honoring God, humanity looks to creation for self-glory, and addiction is born out of this misdirected worship. Romans 1:21-25 describes how humanity exchanges the truth about God for lies, pursuing the fleeting satisfactions of self-gratifying desires. Such pursuits enslave rather than fulfill, corrupting the image of God in us.
Worship Reoriented: Freedom through Christ
The solution to addiction is not simply abandoning harmful behaviors but reorienting worship back to God. Scripture promises transformation for those who turn their gaze to Christ’s glory. As we worship Him, we become like Him, reflecting His image more fully. This redirection offers not only healing from addiction but fulfillment in God’s design.
True Satisfaction in God’s Glory
The cure for addiction lies in worship that aligns with God’s purpose for us. Psalm 73:25 captures this beautifully: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” Only by reorienting our hearts to God can we find lasting peace and freedom from the entrapments of addiction.
