PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS FOR CHRISTIANS WHO ARE DEALING WITH AN ADDICTION

To be clear, we are speaking about children of God who are struggling with their own addiction. Some are addicted to a sinful activity such as pornography, while others are addicted to matters which, in and of themselves, do not violate God’s will. Using the internet is a legitimate activity, but if one becomes addicted to it, he has crossed a line. 

One inspired man wrote, “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12). Conclusion: we must not become the slaves of any earthly activity. When facing a personal addiction, we suggest: 

• Admit it – Be honest with yourself and others by acknowledging your addiction. “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).

• One day at a time – Do not overwhelm yourself by thinking about “holding out” for years and years. Instead, focus on being victorious over the devil’s devices today (Matthew 6:34).

• Be optimistic – While it can be extremely difficult to overcome an addiction, it is doable. Some who in the past were slaves to drugs, pornography, or gambling are now free from the chains of such vices. They currently can say, “I am a former addict.”

• Appeal to God for help – Cast your care on Him so you and He can face your problem together (1 Peter 5:7). Remember that we can go to God’s throne to receive grace, mercy, and help (Hebrews 4:16). 

• An accountability agreement – Consider asking someone whom you trust for special help. Agree to contact him each day and tell him whether or not you have abstained from your troublesome issue in the last 24 hours. This setup causes two people to work together to hold you accountable (Ecclesiastes 4:9). 

• Watch your partnerships – Because evil companions can corrupt good habits (1 Corinthians 15:33), it makes good sense to avoid people, places, and situations in which you will be hit with strong temptations to engage in your unwanted habit. 

• Forgive yourself – If you lapse back into old, destructive habits, but afterwards repent and turn to God for forgiveness, be grateful for His mercy. And, when He by that mercy forgives you, be willing to forgive yourself (1 Timothy 1:13-16). 

• Depending on the nature of the addiction, you may need professional assistance. If so, we strongly recommend turning to a qualified Christian for guidance that harmonizes with the Bible. 

(extracted from TRUTH, a monthly publication to help educate, edify, encourage, and equip the saints of God.)