Addiction. It started with ‘I only do it occasionally,’ or ‘Just one try.’
But over time, it took control of your life, until you craved it daily. Until you couldn’t stop anymore. Until it evolved into something dark and disturbing.
That is its nature.
Addiction isn’t just about substance abuse or drugs. Anything can become an addiction— whether it’s too much use of the internet, watching explicit shows, binge-watching TV, or even overeating.
If you’re struggling with any of these, know that God is with you and desires to help you find freedom. Here are four tips that can help you break free from the chains of addiction:
1. Understand the root cause of your addiction
Every behavior has a reason behind it. That’s why it’s important to identify the root cause of your addiction.
Some people turn to alcohol to temporarily ease their pain or problems, but over time, they become dependent on it. When difficulties arise, they turn to it again.
Take time to pray and ask God to help you search your heart. David prayed for God to search his heart and know his anxious thoughts (Psalm 139:23). Ask God to reveal the deep longings and desires within your heart that may be causing you to turn to things you shouldn’t.
2. Trust in God’s sovereignty
You may know that God is powerful and can do anything, but you must truly believe it and rely on His power.
God is sovereign over every struggle you face, including addiction. Though addiction may seem difficult to overcome, it is nothing for God. As 1 John 4:4 says, “You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.”
Trust that no weapon formed against you will prosper. God has authority over cravings and temptations, so believe He is more powerful than the grip of addiction in your life.
3. Show grace to yourself
Addiction often brings feelings of guilt. When you fall into temptation again, guilt can overwhelm you.
But remember, God is gracious. Even in your struggle, He extends grace to you, so you should extend grace to yourself.
The journey to recovery isn’t easy—it takes small steps, and setbacks are part of the process. When you stumble, be kind to yourself. When you fall, get up again (Proverbs 24:16). As long as you’re doing your best to overcome and lean on God, believe that He can help you.
4. Recognize and stay away from your triggers
It’s important to know what to avoid and where not to go. Jesus says, “Be watchful and pray so that you will not fall into temptation” (Matthew 26:41). He knows how weak we can be and how quickly we give in to our desires.
If you know that something might trigger you to fall back into addiction, stay away from it. Like Joseph, when faced with temptation, he chose to run right away.
Remember, temptation may seem appealing, but it won’t give you what you truly need. Instead, remind yourself of what really matters, and keep praying for strength and wisdom to make good choices.
5. Seek help and find the right community
Having the right people around you can greatly support your journey to freedom. You may need an accountability partner who can pray for you, offer wisdom, and remind you of your goals. It can be your family, friends, or spiritual mentor.
Ask for help from the people close to you — those you trust and who want to see you change for the better.
In some cases, professional help may be necessary to guide you through the complexities of addiction. Surround yourself with the right people and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength and a desire to overcome. As Ecclesiastes 4:9 says, “Two are better than one.”
If you’re struggling to find the right support, CBN Asia’s Prayer Center is available 24/7 to pray with and listen to you. Call 8737-0700 or visit cbnasia.org/need-prayer.
Breaking free from addiction is not easy, but always remember that God is with you every step of the way — He will never leave you. If you want to learn more and see how God can help overcome struggles like addiction, don’t miss CBN Asia’s Holy Week Special, “Preso”, this Good Friday, April 18, 5:30 PM on GMA.
