Monster: Part 3 Addictions

We've all been touched by addictions. Whether we struggle or a friend or family member. Addiction has a way of touching every person. I have compiled a simple list of some of the most recognized addictions: alcohol, tobacco, drugs, prescription drugs, food, crime, sex, porn, video games, even texting and facebook. When you think of someone who is addicted, you usually think of a drug addict. We rarely recognize powerful addictions like playing video games for 5 hours a day or texting non-stop. We must all come to realize that addiction is a daily struggle in our lives. Sin itself could almost be described as an addiction. It is something that we cannot stop doing. For the sake of this blog, let's describe an addiction as something/someone we can't do without for 30 days.

Signs of an Addiction

1. Tolerance- You know it's wrong, but you learn to accept it. You know it's wrong, but you try to justify it.

2. Withdrawal- You can't stop thinking about the object with which you are obsessed. You may even have a physical need. This leads to depression and frustration.

3. Engaging in more problematic behavior- You only meant to purchase one item, but you ended up spending $1,000. You start out drinking and it leads into more hardcore addictions and drugs.

4. Routine unsuccessful attempts to quit the behavior- "I tried to quit smoking three times this month, but I only made it a day each time."

5. Problems in daily functioning at work, home, or social settings

6. Inability to stop despite awareness of negative consequences

Read 1 John 1:9; Ephesians 4:22-23; James 5:16

What is your desire to change?

1. Precontemplation- You are unaware of the problem and resistant to change

2. Contemplation- You recognize the presence of a problem, but you are probably more interested in learning about it than actually doing anything to change it.

3. Preparation- At this stage, a person will express, for the first time, a determination to change.

Read John 5:1-8 and learn about healing.

Do you believe, by faith, that God can heal you?

Steps to Recovery

+Make a Relapse-prevention plan-If you have an addiction to porn, move the computer into a high traffic area of your house.

+Surround yourself with Support- You were not meant to do life alone.

+Pray, Pray, Pray

+Welcome them back-A friend or family member who is struggling needs your support.

When do you ask for help?

+The addiction has become physically dangerous

+Significantly impairs relationships

+You observe withdrawal symptoms

+You experience depression or anxiety due to withdrawals

If you or a friend are experiencing this, please contact someone and request help. We would love to help you in anyway possible. Contact me by email....daniel@ugbcopelika.com

-Daniel