Like most thrills, this post is short. The video was originally created to portray the psychology of drug addiction. Yet it’s amazingly accurate at capturing the psychology of sin.
Whether drugs, sex, materialism, pride, gluttony, the quest for recognition, or any of many other sins, there are some basic principles in common:
- Sin feels good—at least at first (Heb. 11:25). In fact, part of the essence of sin is precisely that quest to “shortcut” our way to legitimate, divinely-intended pleasures (Gen. 3:5-6). We shouldn’t be shocked when sin seems not to be causing us problems, at least initially.
- The horror of sin is greater than its joys. Part of the power of temptation is precisely because the horrors aren’t initially obvious (Jam. 1:14-15). But as a general rule, the pain that comes later matches and exceeds the promise of joy at the beginning (Prov. 6:27-28; 7:21-23). Remember that reality next time sin’s sweetness seems so appealing.
- Liberty is a precious thing. I understand that not every unbeliever is controlled by life-dominating addictions. But if you are genuinely free in Christ today, rejoice in that. It’s a miracle (Rom. 7:24-25). Whatever you do, don’t squander it. You’ll never stop regretting what you foolishly threw away (Heb 10:26–31).
And if you are crippled today by the power of sin, there is hope. The only hope, in fact, is in the power of the cross to set people free (Rom. 1:16).
It’s too easy to congratulate ourselves for not practicing any of the “really messy sins.” But we are no different. We all struggle daily; we all fail; we are all wretched sinners, forgiven, bought, and beloved in the precious blood of Jesus Christ (1 Cor 6:11). Rise up and find freedom in what Jesus Christ has done for you.
