ADDICTION

Addiction is a bondage to a substance, behavior, or pattern that promises satisfaction but leads to destruction. It often stems from deep-rooted spiritual, emotional, or relational wounds and is sustained by false beliefs, idolatry, and attempts to escape pain or gain control.


1. Definition of Addiction (Biblical Perspective)

Addiction is slavery to sin (John 8:34), where a person is controlled by something other than God (Romans 6:16). It reflects a heart issue—seeking satisfaction, identity, or relief in created things rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25).


2. Common Presentations

  • Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, nicotine)

  • Pornography or sexual sin

  • Gambling, food addiction, or binge behaviors

  • Technology/social media obsession

  • Codependency or people-pleasing


3. Root Heart Issues

  • Idolatry (Exodus 20:3-5)

  • Escapism (Proverbs 14:12)

  • Shame and guilt (Psalm 32:3-5)

  • Control or fear (2 Timothy 1:7)

  • Unforgiveness or trauma (Hebrews 12:15)


4. Key Scriptures for Counseling

  • Romans 6:12-14 – We are no longer slaves to sin.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13 – God provides a way out of temptation.

  • Galatians 5:1 – Christ sets us free.

  • James 1:14-15 – Desire leads to sin, and sin leads to death.

  • Ephesians 4:22-24 – Put off the old self; put on the new.

  • Psalm 107:13-16 – God breaks the chains of those in darkness.


5. Counseling Goals

  • Identify and confront heart idols.

  • Renew the mind with God's Word (Romans 12:2).

  • Develop a lifestyle of confession, accountability, and repentance.

  • Cultivate intimacy with God as the true source of life and peace.

  • Restore broken relationships and walk in integrity.

  • Equip with spiritual disciplines and healthy boundaries.


6. Counseling Homework Ideas

  • Daily journaling of temptations, victories, and prayers.

  • Scripture memory (e.g., Romans 6:14; Galatians 5:16).

  • Write a “Put Off / Put On” chart (Ephesians 4).

  • Create a relapse prevention plan with accountability partners.

  • Confession letter or amends plan where appropriate.

  • Weekly Bible study on freedom in Christ.


7. Redemptive Hope

Addiction is not just a bad habit—it’s a spiritual battle. But the good news is Jesus breaks chains (Luke 4:18). True freedom is found not just in stopping a behavior, but in turning to a new Master—Christ Himself. He offers grace for the past, power for the present, and hope for the future.

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36

8. Practical Tools

  • Accountability team (James 5:16)

  • Involvement in the local church

  • Detox and medical referral when needed (as wisdom dictates)

  • Sober living or biblical recovery program

  • Service opportunities to build purpose and community


9. Identity in Christ

The counselee is not defined by addiction, but by who they are in Christ:

  • Redeemed (Ephesians 1:7)

  • A new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

  • Adopted and loved (Romans 8:15-16)

  • Empowered by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16)