So you love playing video games. What's wrong with that?
Key Points:
- If you have a question about something that is not specifically mentioned in the Bible – like video games – you must use the principles found in the Bible that will help you make the best decisions.
- Ask yourself the following questions to determine if your activity is appropriate:
- First, are you spending too much time on this activity?
- Second, is this game hindering you from communicating with or interacting with other people?
- Third, is this game starting to affect your thought life? Are the images, language, and actions in the game appropriate for a Christian to be thinking about?
- Fourth, is your conscience convicting you about your video game usage?
- These questions can be used to help you identify problem areas in your life, not only in regard to video games, but in regard to any secular activity.
- Remember that most things in life can be used for good or for evil. Video gaming can honor God.
Quote This:
Romans 14:23 But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What was the first video game you remember playing? What differences do you see in the video games of the 80’s compared with today?
- Why do you think video games are so addictive? Do you believe there is a correlation in playing first-person shooter games and the increase in school violence?
- Do you set any kind of limits on the games you allow your children to play? Why or why not?
- Do you set any limits on the games you allow yourself to play? On average, how many hours a week do you spend playing video games?
- Would the people in your life say you have a good balance of game time and other activities? Explain.
- How often do you have your phone out at social events? Why do you think you’d rather play games than give people your full attention?
- What is another area of your life where the four questions above would be useful in helping you examine how you spend your time?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
