Lies that strengthen addictions

Addictions and shame are built on a similar set of lies. One lie that cripples addicts is “this is the only thing that helps me cope with my problems,” and shame tells you, “I’m not worth fighting for” and “I’m worthless.” Each statement comes from the father of all lies: “‘The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.’” (John 10:10, NIV) Bondages are built on the sense of being powerless.

Jesus talked about bondages in Luke: “‘“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed”’” (Luke 4:18, NKJV).

Are you feeling powerless? Is there something or someone holding you back? 

Today, you can receive powerful help from the Deliverer. You can cast off every weight that entangles you. In Alcoholics Anonymous, addicts are taught to reach out to their higher power as one of the 12 steps. I encourage you to do the same. I’ll even mention His name: Jesus.

Jesus came to set the captives free and “‘“to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”’” (Luke 4:19, NIV) It’s our year to be totally set free. It may take a powerful altar call or a small group. It may require months of counseling or a prayer of deliverance, but please do whatever it takes to cast off fear, shame, and addictions. Can you imagine living with no shame? 

At the age of 20, I decided to be free from depression and anger. I forgave my father, and I sought forgiveness. It was not long before the addictions started to disappear. I admit the process was hard because my friendships were connected to the abuse of drugs and alcohol. Losing a few friends was the hardest part of sobriety. Someone told me, “you choose who you lose.” When I stopped abusing drugs and alcohol, I may have lost several friends, but I gained new confidence and strength over things that controlled me. 

Choose freedom and a new life free from addictions because you are a miracle.