The Real Answer to Addictionنموونە

To experience the fullness of life as a human we must live in community. It’s what we are made for! God’s original design was for us to have a perfect relationship with Him and a perfect relationship with others. The Gospel not only reconciles us back to God, but it also forms us into a family. As we do life with other Christians, our hearts, minds, and bodies will continue to be transformed into who God created us to be. Here are three ways we can pursue connected community:

1- CHURCH- For thousands of years, Christians have gathered to worship God. Finding a good church family to be a part of is one of the most crucial aspects of continuing to follow Jesus and living in forever freedom.

2- 3AM FRIENDS- Who we hang out with is who we eventually become. We must take a strong look at the people we are spending the most time with and make some serious changes. “The righteous choose their friends wisely” (Proverbs 12:26). I’d recommend cutting out every addiction relationship for at least a year. Begin spending time with people who are where you want to be.

3- SPIRITUAL MENTOR- Not only do we need godly friends, but also godly mentors. We need more mature Christians, who are typically older and the same gender, to show us how to continue to follow Jesus. They live as an example to us, helping us work through our past, and teaching us how to become fully devoted followers of Jesus.

For years, we have lived in isolation. Now, God has saved us and adopted us into His family. As we begin to do life with other people, we will quickly find that community is messy. People will let us down, and vice versa. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. You’ll surely find your heart, mind, and body becoming more like Jesus. Community will help you continue to live in freedom and not return to the mud pies in the slum, as you begin to enjoy this Holiday at Sea. 

APPLICATION: 

• What church are you going to plug into? How can you immerse yourself in this community?
• How can you find some 3am friends? Reach out to them and let them know what you are hoping for out of that friendship.
• Who do you know you need to cut out of your life for a season? Take the necessary action steps to make this a reality.
• Who is the person you’d like to mentor you? Reach out to them today.