OVERCOMING DEPRESSION AND PAIN Devotion: Breaking Addictions Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" Addiction can be a powerful and destructive force in our lives. Whether it's an addiction to substances, behaviors, or thought patterns, it can hold us back from living the life God intended for us. In fact, addictions to substance or drugs, porn, masturbation, phone, gossip etc. serves as a blockage to our relationship with God and most times makes it difficult for us to go to the presence of God with boldness. It doesn't just hold us back, it destroys us at the end if help doesn't come. As believers, we have the power to break free from addiction through Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us that when we come to Christ, we become new creations. The old is gone, and the new is here! Steps to Breaking Addiction: 1. Acknowledge and confess: Recognize the addiction and confess it to God and a trusted friend or mentor. Talk to a professional eg. Psychologist or counsellor. 2. Seek support: Surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you in your journey to freedom. 3. Find healthy alternatives: Replace the addictive behavior with healthier habits and activities. 4. Cultivate self-care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. 5. Surrender to God: Daily surrender your struggles to God, asking for His strength and guidance. Addiction is a compulsive force, without God's grace and strength it'll be impossible to break it. Prayer: Dear Lord, in Jesus' name help me break free from the addiction that's holding me back. Give me the strength and courage to seek support, find healthy alternatives, and cultivate self-care. I surrender my struggles to You, asking for Your guidance and empowerment. Thank you for setting me free in Christ Jesus. Steps to take: Take the first step today by acknowledging and confessing your addiction to God and a trusted friend or mentor/counsellor. Seek support and start your journey to freedom. Don't wait till it's too late. God is talking to you today, come 🫴 there's redemption in Christ Jesus. Additional Verse: - "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." - 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV). Kindly share and follow us on: WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaycnaECnA80XKeArv3z Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15egYTUqJL/ Stay Blessed