Corruption

Last Time: We explored the idea that video games are among God’s good gifts and that He wants to play WITH us. Today, we’ll look at what gets in the way of that.

Those who caution us away from video games cite a variety of reasons. They say that fun can get in the way of responsibility and devotion to God (Prov 6:6-11; Col 3:2), or that video games will poison your mind (Eph 5:11).

Honestly, they have a point. Since Adam and Eve, thorns and weeds mix with every good thing (Gen 3:17-19; Matt 13:25), and delights can become snares and idols.

In some ways, our relationship with video games can be healthy or unhealthy. It is similar to how we relate to food. Do we know when to stop (Prov 25:16)? Do we use it to avoid something we don’t want to face or run to it for comfort and relief instead of to God (Gen 11:4)? Video games also have some unique dangers and ethical questions that aren’t easily answered.

It may sound silly, but if the character in your game breaks or takes something from a villager's house, did he steal? If you were the one holding the controller, did you steal? Maybe not, since you didn’t steal from a real person. However, does carelessly pretending to steal hundreds of times influence your real-life heart (James 1:14-15)? Perhaps not, but what about games that have you doing more dark behavior? What about real-world dangers, like demons, who are depicted in games as cute or useful (2 Cor 11:14)?

I won’t draw the line for you by listing the games you shouldn’t play, and my line can shift at times, but I believe that God wants us to ask Him about it. Every inch of Creation is God’s, but every inch is also impacted by sin (Romans 8:20-23). Let’s be aware of what ideas and practices we’re consuming–whether we agree with them or can thank God for them. Can we play in a way that honors and worships the God who loves us and wants to play WITH us?

Prayer: “Lord, I want to honor you in EVERY area of my life, so please help me see where my gaming is good and beautiful, and where it is tainted or unhealthy.”

Application Questions

1. Where do you see God’s power and nature in video games?
2. How do you see God, the Church, or the spiritual realm portrayed falsely in games?
3. Where are you tempted to worship created things (things of this world) instead of the Creator (God)?

Next: We’ll discover where even secular video games illustrate the truth of the gospel!