Moment of Meditation: Addicted (1 Timothy 3:8)

Deacons likewise must be ... not addicted to much wine,
not greedy for dishonest gain.
(1 Timothy 3:8)

Addicted

Addictions seem to be the most prevalent problems in our lives. They seem to be everywhere. There seems to be addictions for everything. Two of the greatest addictions throughout history have been alcohol and money. There is never enough of either to fulfill the wants and desires of those caught in their demonic clutches. While both are useful, both can be terribly misused.

"Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise" (Proverbs 20:1). "The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10). These two statements from two of the wisest men ever to live bring the startling truth to life. While alcohol has its medicinal purposes (1 Timothy 5:23), it's most common use is as an escape from problems. While money is necessary to buy the necessities of life, it's more commonly used as a measuring stick between neighbors.

Neither of these should be brought up in the Church. Both alcohol and money are gifts from God. They should be used for the purposes for which God created them. The one thing we should be addicted to is Jesus and His Word. Addiction to that will bring about great and everlasting consequences. The consequence of Heaven. Amen.