From The Pastors Desk: How to help those in Drug addictions Using The Bible.

​I have seen the devastating effects of drug addiction on individuals and their families. It is a widespread problem that has affected millions of people worldwide.

While there are many different approaches to treating drug addiction, I believe that incorporating the teachings of the Bible can be a powerful tool in helping those struggling with addiction. The Bible is filled with stories of hope and redemption, and its message can provide comfort and guidance to those who are struggling.

This piece will explore some of the ways in which the Bible can be used to help those with drug addiction and offer practical advice for those who are looking to provide support to their loved ones who are struggling.

1.  Educate Yourself
Educating oneself is vital in overcoming drug addiction, and the Bible provides helpful teachings on how to do so.

Proverbs 18:15 notes that “The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.” This verse teaches us that knowledge is not something that is simply given to us; we must actively seek it out. It is important to educate ourselves about addiction, its causes, and its effects to better understand what our loved ones are going through.

By learning about the negative effects of drug addiction and the recovery process, you can become better equipped to help those with addiction issues overcome this vice. In addition, the Bible emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-control, traits that are essential in resisting the urge to use drugs. 2 Timothy 1:7 states that “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

Furthermore, Hosea  4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." This verse highlights the importance of knowledge in our lives and the danger that can come from a lack of knowledge. Educating ourselves about addiction can help us understand the risks and dangers associated with drug use and addiction.

By relying on these gifts and using resources like the Bible to educate oneself, you can successfully overcome drug addiction and live a fulfilling life free from the chains of addiction.

2.  Show Empathy And Compassion.
The Bible teaches us to show empathy and compassion towards those who are struggling with drug addiction. We are expected to love our neighbors and to give compassion and charity to those who are in need.

In Colossians 3:12, the Bible says,  "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;" This verse teaches us that as God's people, we are called to show compassion towards others and to clothe ourselves with virtues such as kindness and humility.

Drug addiction can be a difficult battle to face alone, and having someone show empathy and compassion can make all the difference. Jesus himself showed compassion towards those who were struggling, offering healing and restoration to those in need. We can follow his example by offering support, encouragement, and understanding to those who are dealing with addiction.

By showing empathy and compassion, we can lift others up and remind them that they are not alone in their struggle. We can also help point them toward resources for recovery and offer to walk alongside them in their journey toward healing.

3.  Offer Hope And Inspiration
Offering hope and inspiration can be incredibly beneficial for those suffering from drug addiction.

The Bible offers many passages that can provide comfort and encouragement. For instance, Psalm 34:17-18 says, “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” This verse reminds us that no matter how broken we may feel, God is always near to comfort us.

Another verse that provides hope is Philippians 4:13, which states, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This verse demonstrates how we can rely on Christ's strength to help us overcome addiction.

Overall, the Bible is a powerful tool for offering hope and inspiration to those struggling with drug addiction. By sharing these verses and offering support, we can show others that they are not alone in their struggle and that there is always hope for healing and recovery.

4.  Emphasize The Power Of Repentance
As a tip to help those struggling with drug addictions, it is important to emphasize the power of repentance.

According to the Bible, repentance is essential for forgiveness and a new beginning. 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” Repentance involves acknowledging our wrongdoing and making a conscious effort to turn away from it. This process can be difficult, but it is necessary for lasting change.

In Matthew 4:17, “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” This same call to repentance applies to those struggling with addiction. They can experience freedom and a new beginning through repentance and surrendering their lives to God. By emphasizing the power of repentance, individuals can find hope and a way out of the bondage of addiction.

5.  Encourage Reliance On God
I believe encouraging reliance on God is a powerful tool in helping those struggling with drug addiction. For people seeking to overcome addiction, the Bible provides advice and solace.

1 Corinthians 10:13 states, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” This verse emphasizes that God will not allow temptations beyond our ability to resist. Therefore, we can trust in His power to help us overcome addiction.

Psalm 18:2 states, “The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”This verse reminds us that when we call upon the Lord for help, He is our rock and fortress against whatever challenges we face.

By encouraging reliance on God through prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking support from a faith community, individuals can find the strength to overcome addiction. Trusting in God's plan and His ability to heal us can inspire hope even in the darkest times. In doing so, we can find peace and restoration through faith in God.

6.  Recognize The Power Of Addiction
Recognizing the power of addiction is a crucial step in the journey toward recovery for those struggling with drug addiction.

The Bible speaks about the strength and control that addiction can have over a person, often leading to destructive behavior and negative consequences. It is important to acknowledge the power of addiction to surrender it to a higher power.
Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking strength and guidance from God to overcome addiction.

Recognizing the power of addiction also means taking responsibility for one's actions and seeking help from support networks and professional resources. Through faith, prayer, and a willingness to change, individuals can break free from addiction and live healthier, fulfilling life.

Conclusion
If you know someone who is struggling with drug addiction, it's important to offer them love, support, and guidance through the word of God.

As Christians, we can turn to the Bible for guidance on how to help those in need. The Bible teaches us about forgiveness, love, and redemption - all of which are crucial when dealing with addiction.

By offering a listening ear, offering our love and support, and turning to the teachings of the Bible, we can help those in addiction overcome their struggles and find hope in Christ. Remember, we cannot do it alone; it takes a whole community of support to help overcome addiction.
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