Addicted

Addiction is a word that is loosely used in the English language. For example I could say I'm addicted to coffee and energy drinks (which is slightly true) but these are minor and insignificant addictions that won't make much a difference in our lives (at least after you become immune to the caffeine and sugar). But what happens when our entire lives are shaken by an addiction. What if the life you once lived becomes an obsession that will take you to places you never thought you would be. It has happened to many strong believers including me. Everyone stumbles or falls but we can get back up in fact we have to get back up or we will never see the light of Christ again or even life itself again. It is a scary thing to be in and the battle to defeat can seem like a lion vs. a lamb. I say that you must over come addiction but many of you suffering will say it is near impossible to do. I agree that it is one of the toughest battle fronts you will face but it's with this battle that you will emerge stronger than many others. The one who can overcome will be rewarded and strengthened. But how to begin this process of renewal. It starts with the base of the problem? What are you addicted to? Lust, Gambling, Food, Alcohol, Drugs, Smoking, Etc. Whatever it is figure out what makes you want to do these things? To get pleasure, fit in, try to erase the memories? You have a reason for it and you can find it. Once you know the enemy you can start to plan. What can I do to avoid this or contradict it. For example if it gives you pleasure I can guarantee you it doesn't last for more than a few minutes after maybe if you're lucky a couple hours. Than depending on how much you're addicted you'll get that twinge of guilt and ask why did you do it. God doesn't give you happiness. He gives you everlasting joy. You might say false. You've accepted God but you're not joyful all the time. Well when you sin or you stop caring about God he isn't able to give you that. Try to find things that distract you from the wanting. What are you're favorite hobbies, talents, etc. Get involved with a sports team, a theater program, a music teacher. Whatever you like to do get involved with it. Also participate in you're church events. Not only are you distracted but you're filling you're self up on the God's word which contains lots of neat tricks on how to round house kick the devil (Chuck Norris style :D). God can help you and so can you're friends who might have a clear mind at the time. It's hard dealing with addiction but is it worth giving up and spending an eternity without real joy? You make the choice.