Overcoming Addictions
People who are struggling with addictions are usually feeling powerless. Their desire to break free is still fueled by their understanding that the addiction is greater than them. Fortunately when Jesus died on the cross, he nailed those addictions and overcame it for us. He is bigger than anything that is trying to take our focus away from him. It is important to remember people cannot do it on their own strength but they need HIS strength to move forward.
Possible things to pray for:
· Repentance and surrender of the lusts of the flesh to God
· Strength to fight addictions with God’s Word
· Divine power to resist the addiction
· Understanding that the addiction does not define who they are; their identity comes from Christ
· Courage to resist the addiction and stay away from company that encourages it
· Wisdom to make good choices that helps overcome the addiction
Verses to share:
John 16:33 (NIV)
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
1 Peter 3:11 (NIV)
They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.
1 Corinthians 10:13-14 (NIV)
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. Therefore, my dear friends, free from idolatry.
1 John 2:16 (NIV)
For everything in the world––the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life––comes not from the Father but from the world.
James 4:7 (NIV)
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Psalm 50:15 (NIV)
“…and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Bible Plans:
A Way Out: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1746-a-way-out
Overcoming Addiction: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/3143-overcoming-addiction
Addictions: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/165-addictions
Just Breathe: Hope and Help For Those Drowning in the Pain of Addiction: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/4875-just-breathe-hope-and-help
Goliath must Fall: Winning the Battle against your Giants: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/4024-goliath-must-fall-winning-battle-against-giants
Blog posts:
5 Keys to Fighting Any Addiction: https://finds.life.church/five-keys-fighting-addiction/
What to do when Life feels stuck like Groundhog Day: https://finds.life.church/life-feels-stuck-like-groundhog-day/