lesterb wrote:I think that all of the above recognize the need for community of some sort in the battle to overcome. Whether it's Tops (for people with eating addictions) or AA (for alcoholics), or what ever. I think the local church should be a major factor in the battle to overcome. Too often we ignore such people.
Another help is admitting that we have an addiction. So many addicts are sure that they could stop anytime they want to.
As noted by lesterb above, there are "step" programs that do help, but without the help of the Holy Spirit and the guidance of the church (ie, members within the church, not necessarily just the leadership) they all fall short, since the real power to overcome any kind of addiction or wrong behavior is founded in true repentance, empowerment by the HS and accountability to spiritual friends/brothers.
I use the term friends here, because too often within the church, some get involved who just stand in judgment without helping. Judgment/condemnation are a hindrance to the work of the HS in these situations. Let Him do His job and we do our jobs without trying to be gods on our own.
Jesus died for two reasons, imo, to deliver us from the penalty of sin, but also to deliver us from the power of sin. Paul addresses this whole issue in Romans 6.
Resistance to sin is expected by God
Jas 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.