by Beth Livingston
Certified Recovery Specialist
Testimonies abound about former alcoholics and drug addicts whose lives were completely changed by their relationships with Jesus Christ. “He set me free!” we proclaim. “I tried on my own to quit and I couldn’t do it. But, because of Jesus’ help, I am no longer in bondage.” Look at the number of true stories featured on
The 700 Club about drug addiction. Jesus has healed tons of people who were in bondage to some form of addiction. But when it comes time to provide and maintain a Christ-focused addiction recovery ministry, it’s saddening to see the lack of willing participants.
Time is short here on this earth and we are all very busy. Some go to Bible studies and take children to Vacation Bible School in addition to regular worship and Sunday services. Some sing in the choir and go on visitation. The list of service opportunities within the body of Christ is a long list. Could it be that Jesus is asking you to serve in a recovery ministry? The blessings you give by sharing your past struggles and the blessings you receive by witnessing God work miracles in others’ lives will outlive you.
If you’ve been set free from an addiction, you have walked the road to recovery and can be the tool God uses to give encouragement and accountability to someone who is still in bondage. Can you remember when you thought you’d never be free? Wasn’t it encouraging to hear regular people get up and tell you how they’d been in horrible shape with their addiction, but now they have several months or years of sobriety? Can you imagine being there to pray directly for the broken man or woman who speaks through their tears at a meeting and says they are tired of living that way and want to change?
Compassion – that’s what we all need for the people in this world who are still in slavery to some form of addiction – Jesus’ compassion. After all, Jesus said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor – sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.” Luke 5:27-32.
Please, fellow survivors, consider being part of the open arms of Jesus for this hurting world of addicts. It’s a huge problem. We were once part of that world. We can serve Jesus as a bridge between the hurting alcoholic and the Lord by being faithful in a ministry God will use to bring about healing for others. You are needed. Whether or not this is what Jesus is asking you to do is really between him and you. God has a purpose for each of our lives. Is he asking you to serve in this way? If so, are you willing to trust and obey?
Have you served in this way before and seen the difference it made or have you had some difficulties helping with this mission? Please share your victories and struggles - your story matters!