“What is your vice?” Just a few days ago, one of my Facebook friends posed this question asking others how they deal with difficult situations. Several answers came back such as axe throwing, having a drink, going for a drive, turning up the music, punching bags, working out, journaling, and more.
Another suggestion was going to a rage room. What’s a rage room, you ask? It is a room in which you are given a baseball bat or golf club in which you have full freedom to smash old TV’s, bottles, furniture, etc. It is perfectly legal to go into these rooms and lose your temper, taking out your frustrations on items in that room.
Aside from fits of wrath, other vices could include worry, anxiety, over-eating, binge-watching TV, swearing, hitting, or yelling. The question, “what’s your vice,” has not only disturbed and challenged me, it has caused me to reflect inwardly and ask myself that very question.
Initially, I thought ‘vice’ meant where one turns when things go bad... and in some respects, that is what it means. However, I’ve come to realize that ‘vice’ actually means an immoral or evil habit or practice. This also leads me to believe that the common perception is that one needs a ‘vice’ in order to deal with troubles in our lives. As I’ve contemplated the answers that were given, I was saddened to see how many handle their struggles and frustrations the way they do. I am also extremely concerned about the state of our general population when we think we need a bad habit or immoral behavior to turn to when times are difficult or heart-breaking.
The Word of God warns against allowing our flesh to dominate our lives. It says: “You should know this ...that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Conversely, when the pressure is on, we can do the opposite of giving into our fleshly nature. When we invite peace into our situation we can enjoy the benefits of it. Instead of falling to vices in our hard times, we can depend on virtues to help us through. Courage, determination, faithfulness, patience, mercy, wisdom and honesty are all virtues that can help us work through difficulties.
Ultimately, not leaning to our own abilities but leaning into God’s strength, guidance, and love will carry us through the darkest of times. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
If we choose to handle our state of distress with anger, drama or bingeing on food, TV or alcohol, we will reap negative results for “whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” If we choose to go to God, submitting to His way of doing things, we will reap a harvest of righteous, peace and joy.
Our health will thank us. Our sleep patterns will thank us. And our friends and family will thank us.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
