April 10, 2008

Internet-Video Game Addiction and Christians

Mark Shaw is a biblical counselor and also the President and Founder of Truth in Love Ministries. He's the author of the book: Hope and Help for Video Game, TV and Internet "Addiction.".

We live in a communication age that is beyond comprehension. We have the ability to reach each other most anytime, anywhere. The ability to do this is one thing; actually being able to communicate effectively is another. Mark believes that since we don't know how to communicate well with each other, all of this technology can actually lead to isolation and a loss of ability to work with others.

Mark has seen this in young, newly married couples. For example, a wife may say she didn't realize she married a video game addict. The husband plays video games and sees nothing wrong with it while at the same time, the woman is starving for communication. In order to satisfy this need she eventually develops a second fantasy life in the virtual world of the Internet.

All of this comes down to the wicked heart of man where both commission and omission sins are involved. In other words, games may be played that are violent; games that show things that the Bible tells us not to put before our eyes. At the same time, the time commitment is so great, the games take the individual away from essential activities such as time in the Word, and failing to communicate and love their spouse and children.

Mark also teaches listeners about the three main motives of the video gamers heart: Escape, Pleasure and Love of Control.

More Information

Truth in Love Ministries
http://www.histruthinlove.org

To obtain a copy of Hope and Help for Video Game, TV and Internet "Addiction" send a donation of $5 or more to:
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