ADHD

I Was Just Thinking About – ADHD.

The definition of ADHD is: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is estimated that nearly 17 million Americans are impacted by ADHD.A general description indicates there are three main types of ADHD: (1) predominantly inattentive; (2) predominantly hyperactive/impulsive; and (3) a combined type of inattention and impulsive actions. While usually focused on children, it is obviously a condition that affects adults as well. The defined symptoms can and will have an behavioral impact at home; at school/work; and in social situations. There are various prescription medicines used for treatment of ADHD, such as Ritalin and Prozac. Ritalin seems to be more effective for general treatment of ADHD whereas Prozac is added to control or modify depression. There are specialists who can best describe and prescribed what is best. One size doesn’t necessarily fit all in these treatment programs.

This caused me to relate ADHD with behavioral patterns with professing Christian people. A fraction of them exhibit erratic behavior whereas inattention seems to dominate a greater number. It seems that a Biblical Christian could identify with ADHD with a particular Biblical Definition. What if, “A” – represented Affection; “D” – represented Discipline; “H” – represented Hope; and “D” – represented Direction.

“A” – Affection: The KJV translated Colossians 3:2 with the direction for followers of Jesus Christ – “Set your AFFECTION on things above, not on things on the earth.” Newer translations substitute “mind” for affection.

“D” – Discipline: The NASB translated First Timothy 4:7 for the personal responsibility and duty to – “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” Other translations substitute “train” for discipline.

“H” – Hope. The NIV translates Ephesians 4:4-5, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to ONE HOPE when you were called…one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

“D” – Deliverance and Direction. In terms of the providence and provision of God, the Psalmist declares, Psalm 32:7-8, “You are my hiding place. You protect me from trouble; You surround me with songs of DELIVERANCE. I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go (DIRECTION); I will give you counsel and watch over you.”

The original premise of this post pertains to a serious physical and mental condition experienced by many children. There has been a major shift in family psychology during the past two generations. If there was an application of the Biblical possibilities of ADHD, there could and would be a dramatic behavioral change that was not dependent on prescribed medications. It has been often-noted that reasonable affection for a child that omits the Biblical prescription for discipline that is accompanied by a loving instruction that gives one hope will render confusion and frustration rather than direction and deliverance. Parents should ask themselves: “Am I following God’s instructions for how to train up my child in the way he/she should go?” For an increasing number of parents – both secular and spiritual – the honest answer is – “No!”

Prayerfully – consider these things with me.