Free from addiction!

There are many harmful 'doors' in life that are difficult to close once opened - addictions to pornography, food, sex, work, gaming, self-harm, and many more. These addictions leave a trail of shock, shame and brokenness. And sadly, being a Christian is no guarantee we too can't be tempted and trapped.

Jesus assured us that he can help set us free and deliver us from the grips of our enemy, Satan, who longs for us to remain trapped in our sin and shame (see Matthew 6:13).

Here's a prayer to help: 'Heavenly Father, "Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt" (Psalm 51:2 CEV). Help me to stop setting myself up for shame and failure (see Romans 13:14). Help me understand the emotional needs I'm trying to fill by opening myself up to these temptations and give me the courage, strength and wisdom to deal with them in a way that honours you. I can't do it in my own strength, so please fill me with your Spirit. Give me someone I can trust to be honest with me - someone who'll share this burden with me in prayer and believe that I can be free from it. Give me a longing for you that will overcome and destroy this issue in my life. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.'



So what now? Use this prayer to help you start to overcome any behaviour harming you. And, if necessary, get the help of a family member, friend, doctor or counsellor to help you become free.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Lead us not into temptation...deliver us from the evil one.' Matthew 6:13 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

1 Ki 3-5, Mark 7:24-37, Ps 93, Pro 11:30-31