In today’s day and age, we must be discerning about what things are not just a waste of our time but also a legal door that is giving the enemy access to areas of our lives. Video games can be more than just harmless fun. Some games are spiritual traps that numb your conscience, distract you from prayer, the Word, and dull your sensitivity to God.

Here are a few things you should be aware of in order to protect your heart.

Understand This About Video Games

1. Entertainment is Not All Neutral

First off, I want to mention that while I understand that not every game is demonic, I do believe that every game is not innocent.

Because games are is immersive, it can become easy to lose yourself in it and before you know it, it has consumed hours of your day. The Bible tells us that while “All things are lawful…not all things are helpful” (1 Cor. 10:23). This is why we must be extra discerning and honest about what is adding value to our lives.

2. Some Games Glorify Darkness

Next, it’s important to remember that games involving witchcraft, spells, necromancy, violence, and bloodlust aren’t harmless. They may “feel” harmless, but they glorify evil and draw your spirit into participation with darkness.

Remember, the enemy disguises himself in things that look entertaining but are full of spiritual poison. The Bible tells us in Ephesians that we must, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them” (Eph. 5:11-14).

3. Distraction is Also a Strategy

Another important thing to remember is that even games without obvious evil can become idols in our hearts. When a video game begins to steal time from prayer, worship, serving, building relationships, or from pursuing your purpose, then it has become an idol.

Take time to truly be honest with yourself and see if your time in prayer, worship, the Word, and serving has grown since you started playing or if it’s being replaced?

4. Think About This Before Playing

Lastly, I would encourage you to ask yourself if those games glorify sin or righteousness? Are they filled with witchcraft, violence, or sexual perversion? Do you feel clean or convicted after playing? Do they help you grow or pull you away from God?

Remember, your time is a gift from God. Be wise in how you use it.

Final Thoughts

After reading this, take some time to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what to remove from your life, and then obey, repent, and renounce any open doors.

Replace your time gaming with time in God’s presence, in community, and growing your gifts. I would also encourage you to seek deliverance if you need it. Remember, you don’t have to fight this alone because freedom is possible through Jesus.

Read: Attacked By Demons In Your Sleep?