Stepping Stones: Addictions - the Stone Gods

Transformational Tip

Yesterday we introduced a Biblical definition and description of addiction. Today is an experiential description. If you missed yesterday’s, read it now.

Nobody caught in an addiction wanted to feel trapped by it when they first started. Sadly, that is the ultimate end for all addictive behaviors.

Addictions are complete enslavement. Some people can feel it, while others are fooled into thinking they aren’t enslaved, but the reality is, we are a slave to the object that soothes. Being “trapped” is exactly where Satan wants us. But we aren’t stupid, so we usually have addiction objects that are well disguised.

People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything. The object of desire for an addict is always staring them right in the face. For some it’s using food as a source of comfort…For others it can be substances, control, relationships, anger, money, power(think parent tactics), the list is endless.

People caught up in an addiction have replaced God with an idol. They found something that promised to give a good time, or make things better or easier to deal with. What entered into their life as an understanding friend and savior quickly became a cruel master. The problem with idols is that they are chosen because we want what we believe they can give us. We believe that they will do something for us, so we give them our devotion. But they are actually stone gods…illusions and lies that trap us.

Today, know and spread the news that for the believer, we have great hope. We are not alone in our addiction. No matter where we are, the Holy Spirit is within us, and intercedes for us before God. Today’s scripture tells us that we are “crucified with Christ, therefore we no longer live, but it is Christ who lives within us.” This is the hope that we do not struggle alone. Christ is with us, and in Him we are free. When we are focused on Him, we can find the strength we need for freedom and victory over addictions.

Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about stone gods. WITHIN REACH will help you break these patterns applying Bible in practical ways.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Today more than ever I need You to live up to that divine title of Savior. I need You to save me from myself, my addictions, my fears…burdens. I am so tired of trying to do it on my own. I am weary and exhausted, stressed out and alone. Come to me and save me. Free me from my fears and help me to hold on to You, so that my live, dreams, and hopes can be renewed... I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to save me, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!

The Truth
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
John 3:18
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Galatians 2:20