Is something holding you back?

Addictions and shame are built upon a similar set of lies. One lie that cripples addicts is “This is the only thing that helps me cope with my problems.” Shame says, “I’m not worth fighting for” or “I’m worthless”. Each statement comes from the father of all lies: “...for there is no truth in him (the devil). When he (the devil) lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44, NIV) 

In Luke 4, Jesus said He was anointed “...to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” (Luke 4:18-19, NKJV) 

Are you feeling powerless? Is there something or someone holding you back? 

Today, you can tap into the Deliverer. You can cast off every weight entangling you. In Alcoholics Anonymous, addicts are taught to reach out to their Higher Power as one of the twelve steps. I encourage you to do the same. I’ll even tell you His name: Jesus.

Jesus came to set the captives free and to proclaim it’s your year to be totally free. It may take a powerful altar call, a small group, months of counseling or a prayer of deliverance. Please do whatever it takes to cast off fear, shame and addictions. Can you imagine living with no shame? 

At the age of twenty, I decided to be free from depression and anger. I forgave my father, and I sought forgiveness. It was not long before the addictions started to disappear. I admit it was hard; my friendships were connected to the abuse of drugs and alcohol. Losing a few friends was the hardest part of sobriety.

Someone once said, “you choose who you lose”. When I stopped abusing drugs and alcohol, I lost several friends, but I gained a new confidence and strength over the things that controlled me. 

You’re a miracle. 

Paul Marc Goulet