Waiting On God Requires Patience

Waiting on God to lend us a hand when we are struggling can really be a challenge. This is especially true when we are struggling with a certain type of addiction. We do the right things and try to hang in there, but we don’t see results right away. It can be tough, but don’t  ever give up

Our culture is not one that teaches patience. Just watch the frustration of drivers behind a car that doesn’t start moving the instant the traffic light turns green. Because of a two-second delay, tempers flare and horns honk. Living in a fast-paced culture programs us to expect everything instantly, and that includes answers to our prayers.

At times, I have been very impatient and frustrated with the Lord when He hasn’t operated according to my schedule. I’ve even tried to manipulate the circumstances so I could present Him with the solution and ask for His blessing. But delayed timing from my perspective is perfect timing from His viewpoint. An omniscient God who is the Creator and Ruler of time can never be late.

Waiting on the Lord requires faith. Just because we can’t see what He’s doing does not mean that He is inactive. Our heavenly Father works outside of our visible realm, arranging and orchestrating events to bring about His plan for our lives. His work is like a seed that is planted deep in a garden—we cannot see the underground process. But just as a plant eventually appears, we can likewise trust that in time, the Lord’s ordained outcome will become evident.

The solution to whatever problem you are facing is in God’s hands. By steadfastly clinging to the truth of His love for you, His knowledge of all things, and His power over every obstacle, you can confidently walk by faith and not by sight. In time, your eyes will see proof of His faithfulness

http://www.intouch.org/magazine/content/topic/waiting_in_faith_devotional

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online, we are continually praying for you and your recovery. It does take time in many instances, but don’t ever lose faith. God has a way of showing uo in the eleventh hour, so keep praying and wait for God to intervene in your struggles.

Pain Killers—Beware!

I know I keep bringing this up, but I just keep hearing more and more about it….including people close to our inner circle who are getting addicted to such things as Vicodin and Oxycontin.  Some facts on the Oxy’s reveal that it is a powerful pain reliever derived from opiates. The Vicodins are similar, as the compound “Hydrocodone” that is used in Vicodins are in the opiate family as well.

Now don’t get me wrong, there is truly a need for pain relief and a subscription for the above when the patient is suffering. Unfortunately what happens though, (as with other addictions) is the sufferer develops a “tolerance” to the medication. Subsequently he or she will need more just to get the same effects when they first started taking the medication.

Be real careful if you start with a prescription for any pain killer medication. They can be incredibly devious in the way they get a grip on you, and can easily turn a routine prescription into a habit. My friends brother developed arthitis in the spine, and needed a small daily dose. Eventually he told us he needed more and more just to get through the day (see tolerance), and before he knew it, he was hooked. He told us the “withdrawal” experience he had to get off the stuff was nothing short of agony.

So again, be cautious and continually consult with you doctor when on these types of medications. Ask him or her if they believe that adjustments should be made in the dosage, with the ultimate goal of you stopping the meds upon doctors advice.

Life can truly be a struggle at tmes for ourselves and family and friends. Unfortunately pain and suffering are a part of this “fallen” world, and we have to manuever it in the healthiest way possible. Turn to God with some of you daily struggles. When you see yourself as one of his creations, then a certain spiritual power can assist you in getting through these battles.

Sometimes our friends and family let us down. There’s really nothing we can do but forgive them, as they are human beings just like us, with many similar flaws. But God has no short-comings. When we turn to him in our time of need he will see us through the dark times.  Try praying. Get a bible and read it. Here’s a simple prayer a friend taught me:  “Dear God, these are truly difficult times. But I believe in you to see me through them. I Know you are by my side, and if I put my faith and trust in you, then I will see better days. It will be a battle God, but we will get through it together”

That prayer has bailed me out of so many difficult times. When you see yourself as a creation of God almighty, then you just know you are on the “winning” team. Start praying and see.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online we are always praying for our readers and believe that they will truly have better days ahead if he keep their hearts and minds focused on God.

Forgiveness….Who Does It Help?

Harboring hatred and unforgiveness toward somebody can really mess you up…..Sometimes the person that has “wronged” us has already moved on with their lives, yet we continue to fret and steam over things….

This constant dwelling and ruminating on past hurts can cause us such ailments as anxiety, anger, insomnia, nervousness, physical symptoms (high blood pressure), and a host of other ailments such as increased drug or alcohol abuse… God didn’t intend for us to live in such drama, and fortunately he has provided a way out….namely forgiving others…

People sometimes come to the conclusion that if I forgive somebody, then I am forgetting about the offense. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. Forgiving is not “approving” of what happened….rather, forgiving benefits us in that we are releasing that person from the bondage that we are holding him or her in….letting them go….giving them over to God so to speak……and if the offense is truly horrific….God will vindicate those offended…so leave the discipline to him….

Forgiving someone will be a refreshing release FOR YOU…no more anger and hatred that will be stressing you….just give them over to God….the last thing you want to be is so stressed out of your mind that you start “self medicating”, especially after you have come so far……say a prayer for the person that offended you and move on…Life is too short to get caught up in such drama.

We at Christian Help For Addiction Online are always praying for you…..get a bible and start reading it…..you will be surprised how truly “relevant” it is to today’s problems…God Bless

Exercise..A Natural Stress Reliever

First of all, I’m not a doctor…so before you start any exercise program, make sure you consult with your physician and get a check-up to make sure you can start a program. If he or she clears you, then get started!

Probably one of the best stress reducers is exercise. There is a lot of research that has been showing how exercise can improve your overall well-being. Let’s face it,  it really does make it harder to “self-destruct” by abusing drugs and alcohol when you are trying to build up your body at the same time through a vigorous exercise program. When you start focusing on your overall health, then sometimes we put that destructive behavior on the back burner.

Now I’m not saying to start out by running a marathon, but take baby steps by walking or jogging at a light pace. Gradually increase the time you exercise each day, and you wil be surprised at how quickly you will improve.

I was listening to a story of an individual who was struggling with a Heroin addiction.  He was describing how his life was falling apart, and how his mind and body were wasting away by using the toxin. He admitted that he had an “addictive” personality and his game plan wasn’t to try to eliminate his addictive personality (sometimes difficult), but rather channel that personality into a “positive” addiction, namely exercise.

Well years later he was showing the world how he was now a “triatholon” participant, and would jog and swim and bike ride each and every day. He was sober now for over 15 years

So there is hope, and like I said, start off slowly. Give yourself a pat on the back after you walk your first mile. Take a deep breath and say thank you God for another day, and that you are getting stronger on a daily basis. Develop some positive habits and routines, and before you know it, some of those bad habits will be replaced with good ones that will lead to ultimate health.

Remember, we are always praying for you, and believe that God will eventually intervene in your life. Be patient and live by faith, your breakthough could be right around the corner.

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Finding A Moral Compass

Here is some great advice we found on establishing a “moral compass” to help guide us through life. Sometimes we are confronted with temptations that are overwhelming at times, and a true test of our character.  If we don’t have an internal alarm system, we could end up in deep trouble. 

The conscience looks at thoughts and actions to determine if they are in line with one’s principles and standards. It is important to keep our internal alarm system well maintained so it will be trustworthy.

For our moral compass to sound at the right time and for the right reason, we must:

• Accept scripture as our standard for behavior. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” If we choose to adopt our culture’s values, which are often at odds with the Lord’s, our conscience will be unreliable. Instead, we want our radar to alert us to the possibility of going off course.

• Align our thinking with the Lord’s. Romans 12:2 says to renew our minds. It is necessary and ongoing work to combat what this unbelieving world accepts as true and right. Our alarm system should help us identify ungodly ideas.

• Apply God’s Word to daily living. When our habits reflect godly values, our conscience will become more sensitive to what is right and wrong

In addition, it is essential that we rely on the Holy Spirit for understanding. Our conscience by itself is of some value, but it becomes indispensable when accompanied by the Spirit’s guidance (John 16:13).

The scriptures teach us how to live—in our thought life, conduct, and emotions (Gal. 5:16-23). As we make our standards align more closely with the Lord’s, our conscience will become increasingly trustworthy because it is based on what is important to our heavenly Father.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online we pray for your recovery and ability to withstand temptations. Try to get yourself an easy to read bible, and read some bible verses. It just might turn your life around.

Addiction and Condemnation

There are a  lot of individuals walking around today who are struggling with addictions  and believing they are condemned. There are many who have been alienated by their family and friends, and feel hopelessly alone. Fortunately our God is a forgiving God, and his goal is not to condemn us. He might allow us to struggle for a period of time due to our sin nature (abusing substances), but eventually once we turn back toward God, our troubles tend to heal.’

Our ultimate goal should be to stay close to God in everything we do. He should be our “ultimate” support system, and come ahead of everyone else, including our family and friends. Once we “surrender” our struggles over to God, that’s when the healing begins Understanding that we can’t fight our battles alone, and that we need God’s help is the first step toward recovery.

Have you been reading the bible lately, and starting your day off with a quiet prayer? Give it a try if you’re not, and see if it changes your outlook. The way we feel is connected with the way we think. If we are thinking that we are nothing but a loser and an addict because others have told us so, then we will subsequently be feeling lousy and mentally drained. If we believe that we are a child of God, and with God we can overcome “all things”, then we will be on the road to recovery. 

Here’s some uplifting bible verses:

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us — they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady. Then, when that happens, we are able to hold our heads high no matter what happens and know that all is well, for we know how dearly God loves us, and we feel this warm love everywhere within us because God has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5: 3-5 TLB

I am expecting the Lord to rescue me again, so that once again I will see His goodness to me here in the land of the living. Don’t be impatient. Wait for the Lord, and He will come and save you! Be brave, softhearted, and courageous. Yes, wait and He will help you. Psalms 27: 13-14 TLB

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 TLB

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online we pray that you turn your battles over to the Lord. He will sustain you through difficult times

Depression-Getting Help Fast

Depression is a problematic condition in America today, and many people are not seeking support.  Some of the symptoms of depression are:

difficulty in concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions

fatigue and decreased energy symptoms

feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness

feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism

insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

irritability, restlessness

loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex

overeating or appetite loss

persistent aches or pains, headache, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment

persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings

thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

Unfortunately many of those struggling with depression make matters worse by “self-medicating”, with drugs or alcohol. This is a great mistake, and will only make matters worse.

We recommend to seek medical/psychological help if you are struggling with any of the above symptoms. God did not intend for you to wallow in your pain, and by seeking out appropriate intervention is in God’s plans for your overall health.

Some inspirational bible verses in regards to depression are:

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24 (KJV)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 (KJV)

The bible is a wonderful resource of strength and inspiration from God. Try to incorporate it into your daily living, and start the day reading some passages. You will be surprised how that will improve your overall thinking, and begin the day on a good note.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online we are continually praying for you and your family. We wish you nothing but the best in life, and pray that your struggles may be few.

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Give A Loved One A Break

What is the greatest burden of all? It’s our sin. All of us have sinned; therefore, all of us must face the consequences of our transgressions. Although we may not realize it, our sins are wearing us out and discouraging us—they are draining the life from us.When we continue to live with such heaviness of soul and spirit, it destroys our body, devastates our soul, and fragments our thinking.

Sometimes the addictions that we are struggling with (sinful behavior) will not only tear us down, but tear down our families as well. We must learn to focus on others, and think about the pain that we are causing them. If anything, let’s make a good attempt at dropping this habit if not for ourselves, but for them. They deserve it. They have stood by us for years and deserve to be happy.

Sometimes taking the focus off yourself and putting it on others can do wonders in relieving anxiety and depression. Is there a friend or a family member who is not happy with your current behavior. Try changing it for a day. I had read some work from a well known psychologist who taught his patients to “Act as if”. Meaning to act as if they were a healthy individual, act as if they were fun to be around. Act is if they were the loving partner that they were meant to be. Give it a shot. Act “as if” for your family or loved one this week. You might see some jaw dropping results.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online we pray that your life improves on a daily basis, and that you get closer to God by praying and reading your bible. Sometimes our prayers are not answered immediately, but if we stay strong in faith, you might be surprised with the results. Stay well..

 

Words Are Powerful

Words are powerful tools. Especially when you are under stress and tempted to say the wrong thing.

Words can build up or tear down. You and I cannot carelessly say whatever we want and then expect a quick apology to heal all wounds.

Even words spoken in haste can deeply hurt someone. Of course, not all messages we send are verbal. Facial expressions and body language can communicate acceptance or rejection, like or dislike, love or hate. Sometimes, simply our presence sends a powerful message.

What are you communicating through your words and actions? Make sure it’s a message that will please the Lord as well as lift up those around you.

Sometimes when others or ourselves are struggling with an addiction, we are under great stress. Our mental “acuity” really isn’t up to speed, as we are influenced by toxins (alcohol/drugs) in our bodies.

Be patient with others when they seem to make impulse comments. Sometimes it isn’t coming from the heart, but coming from a person whose thought patterns are being negatively influenced.

If you are that person who just seems to blurt out painful comments do an old trick that has worked for me. Say the comment to yourself in your own mind and ask yourself, “ok, if i say this, is someone going to be offended?”

If you are reasonably certain that the comment is full of love, then say it. If not, then keep it to yourself. Processing something in our own minds before we say it wil save us much grief. The old “think before we speak” mentality.

We at Christian Help For Addiction Online hope and pray that things are getting better for you and your family. Try to read the bible on a daily basis, it can do wonders for the troubled soul. God Bless….

 

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Surrendering Doesn’t Mean Giving Up!

 

There are some circumstances that may leave you feeling as if you don’t have a friend in the world.

However isolated you may feel, understand that you’re never alone. God is with you and He has a ministry to fulfill in your life. His primary reason for indwelling you is to live the life of Christ through you—helping you face every situation in a godly, victorious manner. He uses all of your heartaches and burdens to teach you about the love, wisdom, and power of God. He enables you to become the person God created you to be and to succeed in whatever God calls you to achieve.

Some addictions that we struggle with are truly overwhelming and attempting to remedy the situation on our own is impossible. But as the bible says, nothing is impossible with God.

Give your struggles over to the Lord. Surrender and say, “hey you know what God, I surrender, I can’t do this on my own. I need your help” and then wait for God to step in.  It might take some time, but that’s what faith is all about.

Hang in there. We are praying for all our friends who are struggling out there with the multitude of addictions. Don’t ever give up hope. Read the bible daily, think and visualise the new life that you have coming, and start to focus more on God. 

 

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