Are You Addicted?
WARNING: This will not be an easy read. It’s going to be a gut check, especially since you’re most likely reading this from the very device that might be causing the issue. The more I researched this topic, the more I had to ask myself , am I addicted ? ( I started thinking not only about my habits, but also my kids.)
Did you know that cell phone addiction is now considered worse than smoking or even cocaine? Yes, it’s an actual "thing." From the device itself to the programs and platforms we scroll through, everything has been carefully designed to hook our attention for as long as possible. Studies show the average person checks their phone 144 times a day—or more! Imagine that. If our phones were a person, they’d be the most demanding, codependent friend we’ve ever had.
But let me be clear: the issue isn’t the device itself. A cell phone is just a tool—it can be used for good or for harm. It’s not inherently bad to have technology. In fact, it can help us spread the gospel, encourage others, and stay connected. The real question is: how are we using it? Has it become a distraction or even an idol in our lives?
Exodus 20:3
You shall have no other gods before me.
Addiction doesn’t just look like drugs or alcohol. It’s anything that takes God’s place in our hearts. Cell phone addiction is sneaky because it doesn’t feel sinful. After all, we’re just checking emails, scrolling through uplifting posts, or staying connected, right? But is it pulling us away from God?
Let’s take a moment to ask ourselves:
Do I reach for my phone before I reach for my Bible in the morning?
How much of my day is consumed with screen time versus prayer or serving others?
Is my phone filling a void that God is supposed to fill?
Fear of going without your phone - Nomophobia
Anxiety when you think you received a text message, but didn’t. - Textaphrenia
Feeling that your phone is alerting you when it really isn’t - Phantom vibrations
Snubbing, or ignoring, someone in front of you to interact with your phone - Phubbing
Biblical Perspective:
Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16). Imagine if Jesus had a smartphone. Would He have scrolled through His feed or set it aside to focus on the Father? We’re called to follow His example.
1 Corinthians 6:12
I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.
Are we mastered by our devices?
Practical Steps:
Fast from Your Phone – Take intentional breaks, whether it’s an hour, a day, or a weekend. Use that time to pray, read the Bible, or connect with family.
Set Limits – Many phones have screen time trackers. Set limits for apps or daily use, and stick to them.
Replace the Habit – Instead of reaching for your phone during downtime, pick up your Bible, journal, or call a loved one.
Accountability – Share your struggle with someone you trust and invite them to hold you accountable.
Use it for Good – Be intentional about using your phone to build your relationship with God and encourage others. Download a Bible app, listen to worship music, or share uplifting messages.
Our phones and devices are not the enemy—it’s how we use them that matters. When they consume our time, distract us from God, or take His rightful place in our hearts, they become a problem. The good news is that we have the power to choose differently. By being intentional with our time and priorities, we can break free from distractions and focus on what truly matters: our relationship with God, our purpose, and the people He’s placed in our lives.
Use the tools in our hands wisely—not to feed addiction, but to glorify God and build His kingdom. Remember, it’s not about the device; it’s about the heart behind it.
Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, Help me to put You first in every part of my life. Teach me to seek you first and use my time wisely and to seek You above everything else. Show me how to disconnect from the noise of the world and connect with You. Show me how to use the tools You’ve given me to glorify Your name and be an example to my family. In Jesus precious name, Amen.
