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My daughter (9th grade) is using the internet addictively. She stays up late using the net. This concerns me, although she is assuring me that she chats with a few good school friends. How can I act on this issue?

"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven" (Eccl 3:1). Any activity carried on in excess violates God's will for moderation. There is always sin involved in addiction.

You need to sit down with your daughter and set rules for the use of the computer, whether it is for surfing the internet or for chatting with friends. The matter should not be left uncontrolled. It is your role to set the time and the duration for this activity. Now, that school started, it should be after the homework is done, and after the daily Holy Bible reading. If she is not used to reading the Holy Bible it is an opportunity for you to start a family Holy Bible study with her Computer Chatting should not exceed one hour per day at the most. You should decide also on a set bedtime every night especially on weeknights. Taking these rules seriously and implementing them now would save you a lot of trouble in the future.

Asking God for guidance, wisdom, and strength to help her overcome this addictive attitude and behavior is essential. In addictions, as in all things, one needs to rely on God's strength, not his own. Incorporating Holy Bible reading, prayer, and devotions into her daily schedule is important. She should also talk to her confession father for spiritual guidance.