Overcoming Addictions
Addiction is real; it destroys people, relationships, families, companies, ministries, towns, cities, and even entire countries like a massive wrecking ball. It's wreaking devastation on people's lives all throughout the planet, even in the body of Christ. The pain it brings about is evident in both the material world and the soul (the thoughts and emotions). However, the spirit—the source of the issue—is something that the world and frequently the Church refuse to confront. People will also be chained to addiction and its damaging behaviours and outcomes unless the spiritual side of this pervasive scourge is addressed.
Addiction is not just a spiritual problem; it is an evil spirit, a demon that has taken over one's thoughts and feelings and is bringing its wickedness into one's physical life as well as the physical lives of everyone they come into contact with. However, despite the fact that the situation appears impossible to humans, it is not. There is hope because of a man by the name of Jesus Christ, who makes everything possible, including addiction recovery.
One must be rescued from addiction in the name of Jesus and by the strength of His blood. Why is it necessary to deliver someone in Jesus' name? Since all people should bow down in the name of Jesus—those in heaven, on earth, and beneath the earth—and all tongues should acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord—to the glory of God the Father—according to God's Word (Philippians 2:10–11), And when we learn that addiction is a wicked spirit, our faith can rise to the occasion, claim our divinely granted power in the name that is above all names, and demand that this demonic spirit leave our loved ones and/or ourselves.
Additionally, one must be delivered by the power of Jesus' blood in order to be free from addiction. How come? Isaiah 53:4-5 states that Jesus suffered physical harm and shed His blood in order to heal our bodies, spirits, and souls. We can see that the translation of Isaiah 53:4-5 is comprehensive when we take the time to divide the word appropriately. that bodily, mental, and spiritual healing are indeed possible because of the atonement—the redemptive blood of Jesus. (For a deeper comprehension, go to The Healing Creed, chapter 2, pages 33–41.) According to John 10:10, this includes freedom from demonic forces that come to steal, kill, and destroy us.
Undoubtedly, He has endured our losses and sorrows; nonetheless, we still regarded Him as stricken, God-smitten, and afflicted. However, He bore the consequences of our sins and was bruised for them; He received the chastisement for our tranquilly, and it is through His stripes that we are healed. 53:4-5 in Isaiah.
Addiction recovery can take many different forms. It is dependent on how strong and accustomed the devil is. As stated otherwise, what is the duration of the person's relationship with this demon? And how far along has this person voluntarily followed this wicked spirit into the depths of sinful behaviour?
Sometimes a person can be set free from demonic behaviour with just a prayer of repentance because it is simply ungodly behaviour. On the other hand, there are situations in which the devil is unable to let go of the person because it owns or occupies them and won't go without a spiritual struggle.
As you can see, I mentioned a "spiritual fight." It is a spiritual war; you cannot use physical force or methods to drive a demon out of someone. For example, yelling at the demon or hitting the person doesn't affect the creature. Actually, the devil is glad of your ignorance and wants you to inflict more pain on that individual. It recognises that at that point, you have no idea who you are in Christ or the power that has been bestowed upon you in the name and blood of Jesus.
You will need to establish a spiritual environment that this demon cannot endure in order to drive it out of your life. This implies that, in order to use spiritual weapons, you must summon forces that are greater than this world.
DEMONS FOLLOW THESE DIRECTIONS:
1. The legitimacy of Jesus' name Philippians 2:10 states, "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth."
2. The power of Christ's blood being supernaturally activated "Yet the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed," Isaiah 53:5. "But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities."
3. And once they are certain that you are aware of your authority over them, they will submit to you. "Behold, I give you authority over all the power of the enemy, including scorpions and snakes, and nothing shall hurt you in any way," according to Luke 10:19.
IN ORDER TO CREATE THE IDEAL ATMOSPHERE, YOU MUST:
1. Take some time to fast and pray. "Because of your unbelief," Jesus responded to them. "Believe me, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can move this mountain by saying, 'Move from here to there,' and nothing will be impossible for you." But the only ways to eradicate this kind are through fasting and prayer (Matthew 17:20–21).
2. Let the fruits of the Spirit come to life. However, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the attributes of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22–23 states, "There is no law against such."
3. Use the Holy Spirit to guide your prayers.
In order to defeat the enemy, you must summon supernatural strength. As the Bible says, "But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you shall receive power; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Verse 1:8. What is required will be prayed for by the Holy Spirit through you. In the same way, the Spirit supports us when we are weak. Since we are clueless about what we should be praying for, the Spirit Himself intercedes on our behalf, groaning in ways that words cannot express. Because the Spirit intercedes on behalf of the Christians in accordance with God's purpose, He now knows what the Spirit's thoughts are. Paul 8:26–27. You must maintain your strength during the whole conflict. - "A person who speaks in a tongue elevates themselves, but a prophet elevates the body of the church." Galatians 14:4–4. Additionally, you will have to expel the sceptics and doubters from the area. It could be necessary for you to remove the demon-possessed person from their familiar surroundings and relocate them to your domain, which is ideally flooded with the Lord's presence. "Make room, for the girl is not dead but sleeping," declared Jesus to the boisterous gathering and the flute players as He entered the ruler's home. And they made fun of him. However, the girl got up as the throng was moved outside, and he entered the room, grabbing her hand. And word of this spread throughout the entire country (Matthew 9:23–26).
Following delivery, you will have to:
In order to prevent the devils from returning, you need to follow the instructions found in Matthew 12:43–45 after the deliverance has occurred. " A man who has an unclean spirit leaves him and travels across barren areas in search of rest but is met with none. "I will go back to my house, where I came from," he then declares. And it's empty, swept, and organised when he gets there. Then he departs and brings with him seven more spirits that are even more evil than he is, and they enter and stay there; as a result, that man's final state is worse than his initial one. The same will apply to this generation of wicked people.
As you read the Bible, let it renew your thoughts and your methods. "My son, pay attention to what I say; bend your ear to what I have to say." They are life to those who find them and health to all their bodies, so do not let them leave your sight. Hold them close to your heart. Proverbs 4:20–23 states, "Keep your heart with all diligence, for it is from it that the issues of life spring." As you pray (or speak to God) in your own language and as you pray in the Spirit of God, you will strengthen your relationship with him. "Then you will come to Me and call upon Me, and I will hear you when you pray." 29:12 in Jeremiah. Additionally, "He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself," according to 1 Corinthians 14:4a. As you listen to praise and worship music, maintain a pure spiritual atmosphere. "Therefore, observe that you tread carefully, not as idiots but as wise people, redeeming the moment, for these are evil days." Thus, rather than acting foolishly, discern the Lord's will. And avoid becoming inebriated with wine, which leads to dissipation; instead, become filled with the Spirit and communicate with one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord, giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and submitting to one another in the fear of God (Ephesians 5:15–21). You and your loved one can achieve the freedom from addiction that you both so much want if you use these Scriptures to their utmost.
Notes on Fasting
I wholeheartedly agree with Paul's statement in Romans 6. To ensure that "sin shall not have dominion" over the believer, Jesus Christ defeated the power of the flesh.
Salvation is not a panacea by itself. However, it gives you access to Jesus Christ's graces, which enable you to overcome all addictions to the body.
When it comes to addictions, a Christian might set themselves up to receive the power of Christ's resurrection and crucifixion to overcome a specific addiction.
I pray that everyone who is a Christian and is battling an addiction may be able to use the following exercise: And I have faith that the Lord will utilise it to help people "purge themselves" of a powerful hold in their lives.
Within a magnificent mansion, there are vessels made of wood, earth, and metal in addition to gold and silver; some are for honour and some are for dishonour. Therefore, if a man rids himself of these, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified, ready for the master to use, and equipped for all good deeds. Instead, run from your youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who, with a pure heart, call on the Lord. 2 Timothy 2:20–22, Revised English Translation
If the addict wishes to maintain their addiction, the next exercise will not be effective. They must be prepared and willing to let go in order for the Lord to permanently shatter its power. The first and most important stage is to deal with the Lord, even if it means using violence, and to reach the point where you are willing to give up your addiction. The place where you've had enough and truly want to get free of it.
Keep in mind that if you continue to live a fleshly addiction, you cannot continue with the Lord. There's just so far you can go in Him. It's a barrier preventing you from developing spiritually.
You are prepared to proceed with these actions now that you have made up your mind on the topic. You might wish to stand with you during these stages with another person you trust to keep your information private. Particularly for them to be with you throughout the fasting portion of it.
Every move has significance. Thus, you won't want to skip any steps if you complete this task.
1. A three-day water-only fast is planned for you. Throughout the entire Bible, God's people used fasting as a method to seek the Lord and receive answers to their prayers. Fasting reduces the urges of the flesh and increases the strength of the human spirit when combined with prayer. The best resource for understanding the benefits of fasting from a biblical perspective is Arthur Wallis' God's Chosen Fast.
2. Decide "resolutely" to fast for the full three days. If you don't decide to break the fast early, you'll probably do so. A decision that is definite will never be changed, no matter what. After you've decided, you'll say your choice aloud so you can hear it in your own voice. "I will not allow food to cross my lips until 6 a.m. Monday morning, with God's assistance," for example.
3. Only sip purified water. During your fast, distilled water is excellent for your stomach and for relieving hunger pangs. Because of its enhanced capacity to bind to toxins, distilled water is beneficial during a fast, even if it is not advised for regular usage.
I purchase gallons of distilled water in advance of beginning a fast. (Health Note: If you have hypoglycemia, diabetes, or a related condition, you should stay in bed for the majority of the fast and may need to sometimes drink orange juice when your blood sugar drops. Your health could be at risk if you frantically run errands or do other things. (This may get really bad.)
See a physician before beginning a prolonged fast.
4. If a fast is properly observed and combined with a sincere desire to know the Lord, it can overcome addictions and persistent sins. The rationale is that the spirit becomes stronger as the body becomes weaker.
5. Turn to the Lord whenever your fast-related hunger pangs are intense. And accept Him as nourishment. Don't forget to drink a gallon or more of water each day. Remarkably, the hardest day is the first one. Day two is a little simpler. The third day is even less difficult.
6. You will observe a three-day fast in a row. For instance, spend the entire Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Break the fast first thing on Monday.
7. Read the following verses during the fast to learn about Christ's victory over sin's power:
Scriptures 6 and 8
Verse 12:1-2, 9
Verse 13:14
Pauline Letters 6:19
11:31 in 1 Corinthians
6:14–7:1 in 2 Corinthians
Judea 8:10–12
3:13 in Philippians
2:14–17 in 2 Corinthians
Genesis 10:16–17
1 John 1:19–21
Luke 2:1–2
Samuel 103:1–12
2:14–22 in Galatians and 2 Timothy
fellowship with these texts in the Lord. During the course of the three days, publicly declare and admit them.
8. Record the sin or sins that are bothering you on a piece of paper on Sunday night (or the evening of the third day). After that, go get baptised—either by yourself or by someone else—with the paper in hand. total submersion. The paper is then submerged along with you, signifying that the sins on it are likewise buried. This is a very potent symbolic act.
You can use a bathtub or a pool for the baptism if necessary. Scuba dive all the way down. You completely separate and break away from the flesh, the world, and the devil when you are baptised. It is an impactful testimony. You can be baptised again at this time to overcome the addiction, even if you have already been baptised before. (Jesus commanded the church at Ephesus to repent and perform "the first works" once more in Revelation 2.) One of the things that is included in "the first works" is baptism.
9. Have a cup of red wine or grape juice and a piece of unleavened bread (a matzo loaf or cracker would serve; most shops carry matzo crackers without leaven). This is how you break the fast on Monday morning.
Important: Place a sign in front of the bread and cup that represents the sin.
Consider the scenario when you have a cigarette addiction. Place the bread and cup on the table in front of you. Place a cigarette or cigarette box picture in front of the bread and cup. "I no longer need you in my life." Place your hands on the cigarette picture. and give it over to Christ Jesus. After that, push the picture aside and grab the cup and bread. Give the Lord gratitude and honour. Eat a modest breakfast now. The fast is over; the day following the fast, eat less. For the rest of the day, as you go about your work, rest in the Lord.
Your flesh's power has been destroyed. It will be unable to dominate you any more. Even though you might still be tempted, you now possess the ability to resist the urge.
10. Lastly, you need to hold onto your victory over the addiction once it has been overcome.
To ensure that you are not overly tempted in the future, it is crucial that you get rid of any traces of the addiction. You run the risk of relapsing into the addiction if you let yourself be exposed to it (for example, by keeping enticing things about or in your home).
It would be foolish to be around friends who indulge in addiction when they are doing so.
A Remark Regarding Addiction to Pornography
According to recent studies, watching pornography changes brain chemistry in a similar way to using crack cocaine. This increases the difficulty of kicking the addiction.
Because of this, some people have found that utilising filtering software to prevent unwanted websites helps them keep their independence after first breaking their addiction, in addition to the previous methods.
You have two options: either make a long, difficult-to-memorise password and give it to someone you can trust to keep it hidden, or have someone else establish the administrator password and keep it secret from you. Or simply throw away the password.
It might also be beneficial to confide in one or more other people about your addiction and your efforts to overcome it, and then urge them to support you in abstaining from it.
It's beneficial to have a frequent conversation partner. It's not necessary to give it a hard time. It could even be desirable to have that same individual accompany you for the entire three-day fast.
Online support sites like CovenantEyes.com (Christian) and NoFap.com (scientific on how to "reboot" your brain from the addiction) offer helpful tools and support for those in need of extra assistance.
Extra Assistance
Regarding the use of drugs, different people hold varying convictions. Some people think God employs them, while others don't.
If taking medication to help kick your addiction doesn't bother you...
Many people have found success with both prescription and over-the-counter treatments for cigarette addiction.
Some alcoholics have found success using Alcoholics Anonymous as a source of accountability. Others have used antabuse to overcome addiction.
Some people with food addictions have found that taking topamax, also known by its generic name topiramate, can reduce their binge cravings. Many people have also benefited from Jane Hirschmann and Carol Munter's book, Overcoming Overeating.
These guidelines, in my experience, will assist someone in grasping the Lord's power to overcome anything if they are truly ready to let go of it and willing to do so permanently.