I told you I had a couple of drug related posts today, and here is the second one. I know a few people who are recovering addicts, and I have been watching and learning from them. It doesn’t matter what they were addicted to, it’s the way they live their lives *now* that I find so amazing. These gals went through 12 step programs to achieve freedom from their addictions. One thing that the 12 step programs offer that you don’t find in most drug detoxification programs is a firm belief in and reliance on a “higher power” to achieve lasting success. And I’ve also noticed that the 12 step programs don’t lead one to say “I am a recovered whatever”, but rather recovering. I think those two things are key.

First, I think addictions are one way we handle the need for personal fulfillment. If you take away the substance, and do not replace it, then that spot is left empty. Jesus talks about a similar thing in Luke 11:14-26. Secondly, I think that when we try to change ourselves by ourselves, we are pretty much guaranteeing defeat, and that it is the constant work of God in us that affects lasting change. After all, Jesus said to ask for daily bread. Not a week’s worth or a lifetime’s worth. Daily. That indicates an on-going reliance on Him to sustain us. Since He is the Bread of Life, I think it’s safe to assume a more-than-physical need meeting in that daily bread request, don’t you?

Okay, those are my thoughts for today, and I think I am done. If I’m not done, I will be back.

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