I Corinthians 6:12Luke 4:18

3-17-2013

“Everything is permissible for me -- but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me -- but I will not be mastered by anything”.

I Corinthians 6:12

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.

Luke 4:18

• One of the most difficult challenges to overcome in life is getting out from under

the grip of an addiction, whether it be drug, alcohol or nicotine dependency, a

food addiction or eating disorder, or compulsive activities such as gambling,

shopping, pornography or Internet addiction.

1. First, you must acknowledge the addiction exists.Proverbs 28:13

2. You must recognize that what you are doing is wrong.

• Addicts find a way to justify their problem in their mind.

• I John 2:16

3. You must not blame others.Instead, you must begin to take responsibility for your actions.

• Adam blamed Eve and she blamed the serpent.

4. Make yourself accountable to a spiritual authority. -Perhaps a pastor or mature believer.

• Everybody needs a "safe" person to share their struggles with.

• James 5:16

5. You must recognize that "will power" is not the answer.

• By admitting that you are in need of God's help, you open access to His supernatural intervention in your life.

6. You must learn to flee temptation.- Proverbs 4:14,15

• Self-deception may enter when you think you can play with fire without getting burned.

7. Study the Word of God concerning holiness and purity.

• Therefore putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the Word implanted, which is able to save your souls. – Jas. 1:21

• Victory over addiction should be viewed as a marathon, not a sprint.

• Give yourself time to work through the process of recovery.

Galatians 5:1, 13It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves

be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful

nature, rather, serve one another in love.