It’s no secret that addiction is a significant problem in our society. Sadly, many Christians struggle with addiction as well. Thankfully, the Bible has a lot to say about overcoming addiction and setting people free from their chains.
In this post, we’ll explore some of those biblical principles and how they can help you overcome your addiction. We’ll also look at some practical steps you can take to get started on your journey to freedom. So if you’re struggling with addiction, don’t give up hope! The Bible offers real solutions that can set you free. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Will God Deliver Me From Addiction?
Yes. God can and will deliver you from addiction if you seek his face and do as he instructs. Addiction comes in many different forms, and each person’s addiction is unique. But one thing all addicts have in common is that they feel like they’re out of control.
You may have tried to quit before, but you cannot do it on your own. This is where the Bible can help through Christ Jesus. Biblical scriptures contain principles and a promise of hope that helps addicts overcome their addictions and get their lives back on track.
One of the first things the Bible says about addiction is that it’s a form of slavery.
In Romans 6:16-20, Paul writes, “Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?
What does this imply?
It means that addiction is not something we can just overcome on our own. We need help from someone stronger than us. And that’s what God is to us.
When we turn to Him, He gives us the strength to overcome our addiction. He also gives us a new purpose in life- to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever. As we seek to please God instead of our addiction, we receive the power to say “no” to our addiction and “yes” to His will for our lives.
How can God help me with my addiction?
You can find strength for battle in the Bible. In Eph. 6, the bible list the armor of God that you can put on. If you put this armor on correctly, then you can get all the help you need from God.
There are numerous scriptures that have the answers for those struggling with the chains of lust/addiction and who want to take the exact steps to overcome these struggles and live in freedom. Here are a handful of things to keep in mind.
1. There Is A Way Out
1 Corinthians 10:13 makes it clear that temptations we experience won’t overtake us. This means that we’re not powerless against them. But how do we gain victory? The key is to focus on Jesus, our ultimate source of strength (Hebrews 4:14-16). When we keep our eyes on Him, He’ll give us the power to overcome any temptation or addiction. You should be prepared to fight your way out of the temptations, first in your mind and physically.
2. Bring Every Thought Under The Obedience of Christ
Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 that we need to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ. This is how we overcome the enemy’s attacks. By no means is this easy, but it’s possible through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
3. Lean not on your understanding.
In Proverbs 3:5-6, the bible encourages us to acknowledge God. Most people fighting addiction often tend to come up with different ways they think will help them overcome their addiction. In a matter of time, these steps may mail them. The reason is that they are not from God and did not involve Him in the decision-making process. Pray and allow God to guide you with the right solutions to overcome your peculiar addiction.
4. Do Not Be Deceived
Some people will come to you and say that addiction isn’t a big deal. They’ll try to convince you that it’s not a sin or that it’s not as bad as people make it out to be. But the Bible is clear: do not be deceived (Galatians 6:7-8). Addiction is a serious issue, and it can have a very negative impact on your life.
David said an important prayer in Psalm 70:1. Here he prayed and asked God not to let him be put to confusion. You’ll come across various materials, resources, videos, and blogs that may be proponents of specific addictions. Run! Flee! Don’t be deceived.
How do I apply these biblical principles in my life?
If you’re struggling with addiction, you can take some practical steps to find freedom. Here are a few suggestions:
- Get rid of anything that’s tempting you. This means getting rid of items and belongings tempting you. It could be something as simple as getting rid of the TV remote if you’re trying to break a television addiction. Whatever it is, get rid of it. Avoid friends who’ll cause you to engage in immoral acts and behaviors.
- Talk to someone who can help. It’s important to have someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through and can offer helpful advice. This could be a counselor, your pastor, or a trusted friend.
- Read your Bible. This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s essential to saturate your mind with God’s Word. It’s a powerful weapon against temptation (Ephesians 6:17).
- Pray. Prayer is a vital part of the Christian life, and it’s crucial when you’re struggling with something difficult. This is another critical step you must diligently do.
- Focus on Jesus. This is the most important thing you can do. When you keep your eyes on Jesus, He’ll give you the strength to overcome any temptation or addiction.
- Find a support group. There are groups for just about everything these days, and there’s probably one for whatever addiction you’re struggling with. This can be a great place to find encouragement and accountability.
Here are some bible verses that shed light on the issue of addiction both directly and indirectly.
- Proverbs 23:29-35
- 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
- Galatians 5:19-21
- Ephesians 5:18
- 1 Peter 5:8
- Jeremiah 17:14
Finally
If you are struggling with addiction, know that there is hope. You can overcome addiction through the power of God’s word. We urge you to reach out for help, pray and read the Bible daily as part of your healing journey. With God’s love and guidance, you can break free from addiction and start living a life of purpose and fulfillment.
