Battling Addictionਨਮੂਨਾ

Fighting Together

According to the Oxford Dictionary, “addiction” is the state of being enslaved to a habit, practice, or something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming. It is marked by an inability to stop using or engaging in something, even when it is harmful to oneself or others.

We can become addicted to anything—alcohol, sex, drugs, food, work, people—even ministry itself. My Strange Addiction, a TV show that aired from 2010 to 2015, featured individuals with unusual addictions, such as eating or drinking non-food items or performing unique rituals. The success of the program showed that we do enjoy getting a glimpse into people's struggles, as long as it doesn't affect us.

But the reality is that addiction impacts more than just the person who is addicted.

Men, this week we are learning about addiction and how to walk side-by-side with those among us who are struggling with addiction, who often feel isolated, and who need to know they are not alone.

We will begin the week by understanding why recognizing the triggers that cause addictions is essential and why asking for help is vital. We will also discuss why surrendering your addiction to God is crucial. Towards the end of the week, we will learn how to hold on to hope even in relapse and how to cope with addiction in the family.

Ecclesiastes 4:9 (ESV) proclaims, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!”

Whether we are the ones who are addicted or whether we are helping others, we all have an obligation to battle addiction. Let us be the brothers who lift others up!

If you or someone you love is battling addiction, please consider reaching out to Celebrate Recovery, a Christian 12-step recovery program.

Prayer: Father, bless this week and open our minds to understand the struggles that addiction brings. Help us to be uplifting and non-judgmental towards others who need our support. Amen.

Reflection: How are you supporting someone you know who is struggling with addiction? Is there anything you are addicted to in your own life? Ask God to show you what you need to surrender.