Addiction is a major issue in the United States. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “In 2017, an estimated 19.7 million Americans aged 12 or older had used an illicit drug in the past month.” Addiction can have a devastating effect on people's lives.
There are many types of addiction, but most can be classified into two categories: physical and psychological.
Physical addictions are caused by the body's need for a substance, such as drugs or alcohol. Psychological addictions are caused by the need for a behavior, such as gambling or sex.
This is what addiction does to you
Addiction can cause people to do things they wouldn't normally do. They may engage in risky behavior, such as using drugs or alcohol, driving under the influence, or having unprotected sex. This can lead to unwanted pregnancies, STDs, and other health problems.
It has a negative impact on people's relationships. It can cause them to argue with loved ones, miss important events, or even abandon their families altogether.
The good news is that addiction is treatable, but without God it is not possible. So, read on, we have some great tips on how to overcome addiction with God.
Bible encouragement for addiction and healing
The Bible is full of encouragement for those overcoming addiction. Here are a few verses:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
2 Corinthians 5:17
This verse reminds us that when we become Christians, we are given a fresh start. We don't have to be defined by our past mistakes or addictions.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
This verse reminds us how much God loves us. He cares about us so much that he sent his son to die for us. This shows us that no matter how deep our addiction may be, God still wants to help us.
How to overcome addiction with God
If you’re struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. God can help you overcome your addiction and rebuild your life. Here are a few steps to get started:
1. Admit that you have a problem (addiction) and need help.
Self-admission is the first step to overcoming any addiction. Denial is common among addicts, but it only prolongs the inevitable.
You must come to grips with the reality that you have a problem and need help. This can be difficult, but it’s crucial if you want to make lasting changes.
Turning to God is often the next step for those seeking addiction help. He is capable of healing any wound, including those caused by addiction.
Put your faith in Him and allow Him to guide you on your journey to recovery.
2. Turn to God for strength and guidance
When overcoming addiction, many people find that turning to God for strength and guidance is the best way to get through the tough times.
Addicts often feel like they are all alone in the world, but with God's help, they can find the strength to stay on the right path.
Prayer and meditation can also help addicts stay focused on their goals and connect with their Higher Power. While it won't be easy, overcoming addiction with God's help is definitely possible.
3. Make a commitment to change your life and follow God’s plan for you.
Make a commitment to change your life. This means that you have to be willing to put in the work and follow God's plan for you.
You also need to be honest with yourself and admit that you have a problem.
4. Find support from friends, family, and other recovery programs.
Addiction is a difficult and often lonely disease. For many, the thought of seeking help seems impossible. However, there are many sources of support available to those struggling with addiction.
Friends and family can be a great source of support for those struggling with addiction. They can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and a listening ear.
They can also connect the addicted person to resources like therapy or 12-step programs.
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5. Pray for strength and healing every day.
Ask God to help you stay strong when temptation strikes and to give you the willpower to resist your drug of choice.
Pray for healing as well. Ask God to cleanse your mind, body, and spirit of addiction and to help you recover from any damage that has been done.
Serenity prayer – pray it every day!
The Serenity Prayer is a prayer that is often used in 12 step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous. The prayer asks for God's help in achieving serenity and in accepting the things that we cannot change.
This is a short version of serenity prayer:
The Serenity Prayer can be helpful for people who are struggling with addiction, as it reminds them that they are not alone and that they can ask for help.
This is the original unabridged Serenity Prayer, written by Reinhold Niebuhr (1892–1971):
God, give us grace to accept with serenity
the things that cannot be changed,
Courage to change the things
which should be changed,
and the Wisdom to distinguish
the one from the other.
Living one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace,
Taking, as Jesus did,
This sinful world as it is,
Not as I would have it,
Trusting that You will make all things right,
If I surrender to Your will,
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,
And supremely happy with You forever in the next.
Amen.
In conclusion, if you are still wondering how to overcome addiction with God, the answer is YES. He can provide the strength and guidance needed to break free from addiction and stay sober.
If you are struggling with addiction, please seek help from a trusted source, such as a pastor or counselor.
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