We need each other, friend

The battle against addictions is never a one-person battle. We need each other. In fact, step five in the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous tells us, “Admit to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.” The Bible tells us, “How could one man chase a thousand, or two put ten thousand to flight,” (Deuteronomy 32:30, NIV).   Every successful treatment program for people struggling with addictions requires counselors, sponsors, pastors and doctors. No one really gets out of the terrible grip of addiction without others or without God as well as a deep desire to be free. Are you free, friend? Have you tried to break the grip of shame and bondage alone? Shame will stop you from getting help. It will scream with all the intensity of hell, “You don't need help—you should be able to overcome this challenge alone. It’s not really a problem. You’ve got this. No one understands what you're dealing with.” Have you ever heard these lies in your brain? Yet God is also speaking to your mind: “friend, don’t let shame stop you from getting help. You can be free from these bondages; I’ll help you and give you strength to help others. You have a bright future. It’s time to let go and let Me set you free.” “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36, NIV)   A beautiful consequence of freedom is your new personal testimony. The Bible says that believers defeat the devil “...by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” (Revelation 12:11, NKJV) Your testimony of victory over addictions and shame will set others free. Your story of battles, bondages and bandages will be replaced by the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (NKJV)   I was addicted to shame and drugs, but now I’m free. I’m not called by my old name “addict”. My new name is “son, forgiven and free.” friend, you’re a miracle. You are a Freedom Fighter.