Ever notice how your feelings about someone or something can change at the drop of a hat? Or how something you know is wrong can seem or feel so right while the right thing feels wrong? Pretty soon we compromise our good judgement and even moral standards. Our emotions and the part of the brain that tells us “how it feels” take over and our whole life is changed.
This is especially true for the addict. No matter what the compulsion or obsession, most are rooted in the “feel good” category. I’m not trying to say that there are not deeper underlying fears, pain or circumstances that led us to our demon of dependence. What I am saying is that part of the reason we stay in the state of habit is the feeling we get from it. The escape that comes from getting high, the mood changing effect, the sensation of shoplifting, the temporary comfort we gain from overeating, the feeling of masturbation or even the provisional numbness provided by cutting. There are so many addictions out there that I can’t name them all. But the same is true with all. The feeling provided by the fulfillment of your craving briefly pleases your need to feel good and then leaves you empty and wanting more.
As addicts we must learn this simple fact. We cannot judge the moral value of any action based on the way we feel or how it makes us feel. Our feelings can be an unreliable scale on which to convey truth.
So where do I find the scale of justice and truth? How do I know if my emotions and feelings are steering me in the right direction?
The only place I can direct you is to the Holy Bible.
This time-tested and honored book is actually 66 different books given to us by divine inspiration of God through the authorship of 40 different men over a period of 1600 years. It has stood the test of time. Wars have been fought over the Bible. It has withstood floods and fires.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ” 2 Timothy 3:16
The backbone of this book is to teach us about God and what He has done for us through His love for His creation. Although the books are written about man and the New Testament letters are written to men, the story is about God. We just get to be part of it. From the design of our earth to the first rebellion of man against its Creator to the redemption and bringing man back into a living relationship with God, this book is meant to be read and adhered to.
If you will take the time and read just the Gospel of John this month, it will take you through everything I mentioned above. It will lead you into a real connection and relationship with your Creator and restore you to freedom from your obsessive, compulsive or addictive behavior.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36
The Son is God’s Son Jesus Christ who came to pay the penalty for our disobedience to God and restore us to a right place with Him. No, we don’t deserve it. But through God’s love He gave us grace. If you need this love, grace and freedom in your life please pray this simple prayer with me. The words are not as important as the attitude of your heart.
God, I know I have done you wrong and this is sin. I want to make things right with you. I believe that you sent your Son to take my death sentence and stand in my place so that I can be forgiven and have a fresh start with you. I confess my sins before you right now and I leave them at the cross of Jesus Christ. Help me Lord to do your will and to love you with all my heart, mind, body and soul. Teach me your ways. Show me your freedom. In Jesus Holy name, AMEN
Now that the first step is done, seek out a Bible believing and teaching church, talk to God in prayer, read more of God’s word and if needed find a Christ centered rehab or support group. If you need some Christian guidance please leave me a comment and I will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
My prayer is for all addicts to find the freedom that only comes a relationship with God through Christ Jesus, that your chains of slavery to dependence be broken and that you enjoy a life of peace, love and grace.
Brianssobriety Blog 
This is so good. Thanks for sharing. I totally agree. I still find it hard to break free of that state of dependence on something.
Hard as it may be, it is totally possible. “For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” Romans 10:10. I found that a big part of my continued freedom is the continual confession that I am free. Friends and neighbors already know but I tell them all the time. That Jesus set me free. Rev 12:11 is another one of my faves. “And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” Every chance you get tell someone what Christ has done for you. And I pray that God will lead and guide you through the power of the Holy Spirit and the Scriptures to continued freedom. In Jesus Holy name, AMEN!
Thank you Brian for reaching out to addicts with the gospel of Jesus Christ! There’s no greater message!