Addiction is a compulsive tendency developed over a period of continuous and repeated actions or exposures to certain substance or habit. Addiction is one of the many struggles people are going through today. It is a big struggle because, it often results in the loss of willpower and self-esteem, shift of focus, social and emotional disconnect and ultimately, death. Here, I like to share knowledge on different types of addictions, their adverse effects and how to overcome them.
At the beginning, it does not look like addiction to those who have been entrapped by such substance or habit. However, the moment they get to the point where they can not do without such and when they have lost their willpower to refrain from it; that simple practice has just then resulted into addiction.
People could get addicted to different dangerous drugs, alcohol, ungodly sexual practices, to mention a few. All of these have negative effects on their victims body which is the temple of God. They could end up harming and defiling their body and soul 1 Cor.3:16-17.
There are also behavioral or process addictions with indicative mood-altering behaviours such as gambling, eating disorder, unguided spending, shopping and ungodly sexual activities such as masturbation and pornography. The way to overcome addiction are:
Firstly, the victim must take a stand. Develop a willing mind to break loose from the web of unpleasant behaviour and practices they have been caught into. In doing this, they must realise they need help from God to break loose and get freed according to Psa. 51:1-4.
Secondly, they must seek help genuinely by opening to God and confess their weakness. In addition, they can seek help from people who may help them. Surrendering to proper screening and therapy can also prove to be helpful. Ultimately, the care of God is the most genuine and helpful, so they must surrender to God’s unconditional care 1Pet. 5:7.
Thirdly, they must beware of relapse and resists its temptation by all means – Jam. 4:7. Relapse is to addiction just as backsliding is to sin and the consequence is usually worse than the previous condition – Matt. 12:43-45.
Fourthly, they must apply great diligence to keep, guide and guard their hearts – Pro. 4:23. The reality is that addiction is a battle of the mind. Therefore, renewing your mind daily with the word of God, meditating on it with a resolution to practice the teachings will really be helpful – Rom. 12:2, Eph. 4:22-23
Finally, avoiding exposures to all forms of triggers is necessary 1 Cor. 15:33. Keeping company with friends who are still in same entrapment could prove very dangerous. Heb. 10:24-25 encourages to learn to keep company with people who can encourage them retain their newly found lifestyle of victory and self-control will be helpful.
