Love Life SoberSample

EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE

When we first set out to change a habit, we often start by trying to modify our behavior. But where we actu­ally need to begin is with our thoughts. Then, we need to understand how our thoughts make us feel. Only then are we equipped to change our behaviors.

The apostle Paul gives us a road map to changing how we think. In Romans 8:6 he says, “Letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit con­trol your mind leads to life and peace.” In 2 Corinthians 10:5, he reminds us to “take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ.”

To get back in control over alcohol, we must recognize how our minds are creating stories about why we “need” and “deserve” alcohol. Without careful ex­amination (taking the thought captive), we believe these sto­ries are true.

Many women drink because they want to shut off the constant pressure of trying to live up to unrealistic versions of themselves. The easy-button answer is alcohol. These thoughts that negate our worth are the thoughts we need to take captive and run through the filter of what God says about us.

Because the truth is that you are loved even if you didn’t get everything checked off on your to-do list. Even if you were skipped over for that promotion or if you messed up that project, your true worth is unchanged. God loves you so much that He sent His Son to the cross.

In John 8:32, Jesus says that knowing His truth sets us free. If you’re drinking because you feel you’re not enough, take that thought captive and embrace the truth that you are God’s daughter. When you fully comprehend that God sees you as wor­thy, that He knows and loves you, the pressure is off and so is the need to numb with alcohol. In other words, meditating on that truth can change your behav­ior and set you free.

You can use this truth-finding tactic for everything in your life, not just as it relates to your drinking. Anytime you feel pressure or discomfort, take a minute to observe your thoughts, figure out what story your brain might be making up, and check it against God’s truth.

What specific truth from God’s Word can you think about when you’re feeling unworthy or tempted to numb pain with alcohol?