Your Reality
Did you know that there’s a psychology to gaming? Something about the nature of gaming generates strong motivation and commitment to keep playing. This motivation and commitment come from the fulfillment of certain needs, such as the need to belong, form relationships, escape loneliness, and feel purposeful through instant rewards, such as engaging with other people and accomplishing missions and advancements/level-ups.
However, it becomes problematic when you play all day, week after week. This is known as gaming preoccupation, which can lead to gaming addiction. Gaming for too long can cause negative health effects, such as vision problems, muscle overuse injuries (due to the repeated use of certain muscles, primarily in the hands and arms), and sleep deprivation related issues, namely heart disease, diabetes, obesity, weakened immunity, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
You can become addicted to gaming when you find it difficult to deal with reality. If you are not connected to Jesus, there are many things in this world that can overwhelm and tempt you to find an alternative virtual reality that seems better than your real life. Consequently, you waste a lot of time building virtual civilizations, unlocking skills, and gaining points/coins, as you make this virtual world your own. But it’s not real. I liked gaming when I was younger because it allowed me to enter a universe where I could be whatever I wanted to be: a farmer, a restaurant owner, or even an animal character. But, soon, I realized that I had not accomplished the things that I needed to in the real world and the problems that I might’ve had before were still there.
What starts out as a cool gaming experience can turn into an attempt to temporarily satisfy the need for connection, progress, and fulfillment. Life might feel less interesting than Roblox, Minecraft, or Fortnite. Or, you might feel lonely or empty, lack purpose/direction, or have too much to bear. But, resist the temptation to escape into gaming because it is only a temporary distraction. It is not a cure, and it can lead to more problems. Instead, turn to your Creator, stay in the reality that He made for you. He will be with you and help you to overcome any obstacles and guide you into the good life that He has planned for you. You will become stronger and more fulfilled in the process. He knows more about you than you know about yourself: your strengths, your weaknesses, your hopes, and your fears. You can trust Him with all of it. And when you do, He will make your reality better than you can imagine.
Verses: Psalm 139:1-16 NIV, John 16:33 NIV
I encourage you to read Psalm 139:1-16.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV)
