Finding Faith Amidst the Chaos of Addiction
by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
Life has a way of presenting us with challenges that test our faith and resilience. Recently, my husband and I have faced one of those heart-wrenching challenges through our friendship with someone we care about deeply. We lovingly supported our friend on his journey to recovery, believing wholeheartedly in the promises God had made to him. However, when he left rehab early, we were left feeling apprehensive about his decision.😔💧
Three weeks later, our concerns were confirmed. Our friend relapsed into alcohol and lost his job. His relapse into drunkenness not only separates him from his walk with Jesus, but it damages his relationship with his young daughter. It was a painful reminder of how fragile recovery can be. I have interceded for him, contributed to his recovery process, offered him my home, and loved him each day. Yet, his unwillingness to surrender dashed my hopes for his recovery. The feelings of defeat and disappointment weighed heavily on my heart. I had invested so much hope in his healing and transformation, and seeing him slip back into old habits has been disheartening. 😔
As I pray about this situation, I am reminded of Proverbs 13:12: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” In moments like these, I cling to the truth that even when our hopes feel unfulfilled, God’s love remains steadfast and His promises endure.
In this moment of struggle, I am reminded of the woman at the well (John 4:1-42), who transitioned from a victim mentality to one of victory. Just as she encountered Jesus and found hope in her circumstances, I am learning to lean into God’s promises for our friend. Despite the setback, I believe God’s plan remains intact. 🙏
While we’ve made the difficult decision to step back from our friend for now, our commitment to loving him does not waver. We continue to urge him to return to rehab, to seek the healing he so desperately needs. It’s a challenging balance—offering support without enabling destructive behavior.
I am persuaded by the Lord not to give up on him. His promises still stand, even in the face of this major setback. As we navigate this journey, I am reminded that healing is often not a straight path. There are bumps, detours, and sometimes, painful relapses. However, just as Jesus offers us living water that quenches our deepest thirst (John 4:13-14), I believe there is still hope for our friend to find renewal and restoration. 🌿💧
In these moments of uncertainty, I hold onto the truth found in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God has a purpose for our friend, and I refuse to let this moment define him.
Advice from Jesus for Supporting a Loved One in Recovery
If Jesus were to give advice to a friend or family member of someone struggling with addiction and relapse, it might encompass compassion, encouragement, and guidance rooted in Scripture. Here’s how that advice could be articulated:
- Show Compassion and Understanding:
- Jesus often modeled compassion. He would likely advise you to approach your friend with love and understanding.
- Scripture Reference: Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
- Encourage Surrender to God:
- Jesus might encourage your loved one to fully surrender their struggles to God.
- Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
- Foster a Supportive Environment:
- Surround your loved one with a supportive network to help them feel valued and understood.
- Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
- Promote Hope and Restoration:
- Jesus would remind you to hold onto hope for your loved one.
- Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
- Pray Without Ceasing:
- Jesus would likely encourage you to pray fervently for your loved one.
- Scripture Reference: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.”
- Be Patient:
- Jesus would emphasize the importance of patience in the healing journey.
- Scripture Reference: James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.”
Conclusion
As I share this reflection, I hope it encourages anyone who feels weighed down by disappointment or loss. Just as Jesus offered the woman at the well living water that would quench her thirst forever (John 4:13-14), we too can find refreshing hope in Him amidst our struggles.
As I conclude, let’s carry with us the truth that Jesus offers us more than survival; He invites us to thrive. By transforming our victim mentalities into a victory mindset, we align ourselves with His purpose and power. May we be inspired to embrace our identities as children of the Most High, empowered to impact the world around us.
Let us pray for the courage to shed our burdens and step into the victory that Jesus has already secured for us. As we move forward, may we always remember that no matter our past, we have a future filled with hope in Him. 🌈❤️
Prayer for Breakthrough
Heavenly Father, I come before You, seeking breakthrough in the lives of those who are struggling. I ask that You grant each person the strength to overcome his or her challenges as well as the courage to surrender fully to You. Lord, may Your living water flow over them, refreshing their spirits and renewing their minds. I pray for healing, restoration, and a deep sense of purpose in their lives. Help them to see the hope that You offer, even in the darkest moments. Thank You for Your unwavering love and for the promise of victory in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 🙏✨
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