Leaders. Students. Pastors. Young or old. Educated and not. From should know better to trying to know better.
Alcohol. Drugs. Oxycontin. Vicodin. Dextromethorphan. Sex.
God has called on me to help several men this past year that are struggling with addictions. And as you can note above, the circumstances are all different.
One thing stays the same, however. The first victim.
Truth.
The situation may start innocently, without sin. But in a weak moment (a sinful moment), the will gives way and desire wins the day. And a pattern begins.
And because we foolishly think we can cover our sin, we lie. Over and over again. Till we can’t figure out the difference between the lies and the truth. Even when the evidence is overwhelmingly against us, we still insist that the lie is true. It is more than absurd.
There is hope though. When one is able to confront the addiction and tell the truth, the desire for wholeness is a reachable goal.
And hope continues. Regardless of your success or your failure on any given day. Hope always remains as long as you tell the truth.
For, the truth shall set you free…
Good points. I think addiction is often about chosing something false (a lie) over that which is real (true). It may help the addict to ask, "What real or good thing I am I turning away from to get the quick fix with this "drug?" or behavior.
ReplyDeleteI also think relationships are key. Many don't have a REAL relationship with God or REAL friends to turn to so they turn to a substance that is always there for them and "comforts" them.
Godwin