Let Go and Let God

Hello from Christian Help For Addiction Online.  We pray that your struggles are becoming less, and that this new year of 2011 will be a healthy and prosperous year for you and your family. 

Casting our cares upon God, can help in alleviating most of the anxiety and stress that we struggle with today.  Christ even told us to cast your cares upon the Lord, for his burdens are easy and his yoke is light…….(Matthew 11:28-30)  Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  The yoke as described, was that heavy wooden harness that was placed around the oxens head as he was pulling a heavy plow etc.  Truly a heavy burden for sure.

When we hold onto our stressors (family struggles, finances, kids, health, work), we wear ourselves down.  At times we feel that there is no escape, and we look for a way to alleviate our stress.  Unfortunately, there are many that try to alleviate the stress by unhealthy means, namely alcohol and/or drugs.  Self medicating can be quite dangerous, and left outside of the hands of a physician can put us in harms way.  Dealing with the stresses of life in a healthy and spiritual way, can work wonders for many.

Try letting go of some of the issues that burden you.  Turn them over to God and leave them in his hands.  A good prayer might be, “Lord, I can’t do it by myself any longer….I tried, but had no results…I am going to turn my troubles over to you, and have faith that you will see me through these ordeals….”  It’s hard to figure out or put reason behind just “why” some of these dilemmas have come upon us…..but trusting God to see us through the difficult journey will help ease much anxiety and fear.

Here is a devotional from intouch.org, discussing just how to trust God and casting your cares upon him.  Let us know what you think.

God’s shoulders are wide enough to carry your burdens. He is sovereign over the universe, so He is certainly capable of working out problems and meeting needs. Today I want to give you an exercise that will help make casting your cares a practical act.

First, write on a piece of paper the things that cause your anxiety. Once you start writing, you may discover a list of items that cheat you out of peace.

Next, pray each issue into God’s care. Recall Psalm 18:35, which promises that He upholds believers in His loving grasp.

Finally, as you pray, visualize placing the situation into God’s omnipotent hands. For example, a woman may imagine handing over to the Lord what she owes, while saying, “Father, I give You my financial anxiety. I know that You will show me how to get out of debt. You are more than sufficient to handle it, and I trust You to guide me.”

Some people may protest this suggestion, because humanistic and pseudo-spiritual movements also use a method they refer to as “visualizing.” Don’t let anyone steal what is rightfully yours. God creates word pictures throughout the Bible. This exercise merely creates a mental snapshot of the Lord doing exactly what He says He will do (Ps. 55:22; Matt. 6:25-26).

When you have transferred all of your worries to God’s hands, wad up that paper in your fist, and then destroy it. In this way, you symbolize the transaction that just took place. Your cares are no longer yours. Every one of them belongs to the Lord. Walk away in perfect peace.

We continue to pray for all our readers…and hope that your struggles and burdens become less…..pray daily. as your turning point might be nearer then you think…God Bless

Coping With Stress

Hi everyone, hope you had a good weekend…..Stress is a major player when it comes to addictions.  When people feel stressed, they sometimes “self-medicate” with alcohol or drugs to relieve the pains of life.  Unfortunately, this self medicating comes at a price, and can wreak more havoc then good.

God wants us to come to him in prayer and thanksgiving when we are feeling stressed. Knowing that God loves you no matter what, and I stress…”no matter what”, we know that he will stand besides us during difficult times. here is a great devotional from intouch.org. let me know what you think.

 

Oftentimes, we use the word “stress” to describe the pressure we are feeling. It can come from something as simple as traffic or from more complex situations or underlying issues, such as insecurity. Stress becomes distress when it creates deep emotional and mental anxiety. Unfortunately, in today’s world, living with a fairly constant level of such tension is not unusual.

I remember 1944 being a year of tremendous turmoil in our country because of World War II. Many people would watch the evening news and hear reports of bloodshed in various locations. Those with loved ones overseas listened anxiously.

I can’t recall the name of my social studies teacher that year, but I have never forgotten something she said. One day, after tearfully announcing that we would take a break from the normal routine, she pulled out a Bible and read Psalm 46. The woman explained that her husband’s division had been mentioned on the news the previous night. Though fearful, she found comfort in the Scriptures.

Since then, I turn to that Psalm when I am troubled or afraid. We all face uncertain times when, in our humanness, we feel alone and scared. Yet there is confidence to gain in Jesus.

Today’s verse holds the key to releasing stress and finding peace. What is causing you mental anguish? Stop striving, and rest in our loving, almighty God. He wants you to trust Him, lean on Him, and allow Him to carry the burden for you. His desire is for His children to be relieved of worry.

We will continue to pray for you and your family. Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online, we know that life isn’t easy at times, and we need some support to get through those tough days or weeks. Christ can be your anchor during the storms of life.  Get a bible and start reading. It just might turn your life around….stay well…

Let Your Light Shine

Hi everyone….hope you are well…do you know anybody that is struggling with an addiction?  Perhaps you are on the road to recovery and know others who need some help. Being there for them during these difficult times is very important, as support from a healthy friend or partner is truly priceless.

Others will be watching us for the progress that we have made.  It is important to portray our “new” healthy lifestyle to others, and allow them to see how God is now a part of our life by the way we act and live.  Here is a great devotional from intouch.org.  Let me know what you think.

God displays His children to the world like a city on a hill (Matt. 5:14). The light from a thriving metropolis can be seen for miles. Likewise, believers are to “shine” in such a way that others will observe our good works and honor God.

A Christian’s “faith light” is evident through his deeds. We want co-workers, friends, and others in our sphere of influence to sit up and take notice of the way that we live. The reason? Because once they see we’re not simply “out for number one,” they’ll want to know why. And that’s when they will begin to connect the dots, with thoughts like: He helps others even when it’s difficult . . . He says he does this because he’s a Christian . . . His God must by worthy and good.

The more people see believers doing good works, the more glory goes to God, who is the Author of our service record.

To balance the command to shine, however, the Lord did give an admonition in Matthew 6:1: “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them.” In other words, be mindful of the motive. If we’re performing in order to get a pat on the back or the attention of others,we will lose out on a heavenly reward. That fleeting bit of worldly appreciation is all we’ll get for our efforts.

Believers are here to point others to the Lord whom they serve. We are a reflection of His light and glory. It is He who not only gives opportunity to shine but also equips us with the strength and gifts to work for the kingdom. As bright as we may be, we are nothing apart from the Lord.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online, we will continue to pray for you. Remember, the greatest story ever told is in the bible. It is a guide for life. Get yourself an easy to read version and start reading. It will truly make a difference in your life. Stay well…and God Bless you…

Stress And Addictions

Stress is a killer no doubt…some of the reported effects of stress can be high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, low immune response and many many more….Unfortunately, stress can be caused by many different events, and is not isolated in any specific or measurable form….so what might be stressful for me, might not be stressful for you.

Some common day “stressors” could be financial difficulties (job loss), health issues, marital struggles, children problems, or sometimes just a negative perception of life. Again, my stressors can be significantly different from yours, but we might both end up with the same side effects.

The important thing to consider is how does one handle their stress?  Probably the first course of action would be a visit to your family physician for a check-up and physical.  If you are having physical symptoms (high blood pressure) then you should be treated medically.

The real fly in the ointment comes when individuals decide on treating their “stress” in unhealthy ways.  The most prevalent “unhealthy” way is by self-medicating with either a controlled substance and/or alcohol.  Many are tricked into believing that they are “coping” with their stress by self-medicating, when in reality they are stressing their bodies more by introducing “toxins” and substances that will eventually trigger a higher stress response.   It truly is a vicious cycle, and one that you want to avoid…

If your physician gives you the “ok”, then try starting an exercise program to relieve some of your stress….a brisk walk  or a bicylce ride does wonders for burning off some of that adrenaline, and releasing some of those positive endorphins that are so beneficial….I know for me , a light jog in the morning does wonders for “clearing the head’, and relaxing the body for the remainder of the day…

Meditation has also been recommended for those struggling with stress in their lives…..as Christians, we have the benefit of prayer, and focusing on God and all the good things that he has done in our lives…Try closing your eyes at night and focusing on some positives (no matter how few) and thank God for another day and a hope for a better future…..remember, Christ said in the bible that he came to give us life and give it more abundantly…not for us to be dragged down and living in despair and hopelessness….when we focus on him in prayer and thanksgiving……our thoughts seem to change for the better…

Here at Christian Help for Addiction Online, we pray that your road to recovery is short, and that the burdens you know carry will be removed as you draw closer to God…..When you see God as your creator, then you can realize just how special you are…created in the image of an all powerful God who loves you and is concerned for you…..This is a “fallen” world that we must get through…it is not paradise and can sometimes be a living hell on earth….but fortunately Christ promises that if we believe in him and accept him as our savior, our eternal future is secure…..don’t let another stressful day go by…accept Christ as your savior, and begin a journey that will never end…stay well and God Bless…

A Guide For Life

I was reading a great devotional from the “intouch” website that I thought I would share with you.  Sometimes we need some advice on how to deal with our issues and struggles.  Getting advice from so called “friends” can be tricky, especially if they have become soured toward life. One of the best resources you and I have right at our fingertips is the Bible.  Here’s the devotional message.

Stan bought his grandchildren a new toy. After glancing at the directions, he set the booklet aside to get busy building. A few frustrating hours later, Stan humbly opened the instructions again and followed the steps to assemble the toy. Soon he was done, and the grandkids were playing happily.

Stan knew that the manufacturer had a plan for putting together the toy. But he’s a smart fellow, so he assumed he could figure it out too. Many people take the same approach to the Scriptures that Stan took to those directions. Instead of treating God’s Word like a manual to live by, they glance at it occasionally when they aren’t sure what to do next.

The Bible is like the Father’s diagram of Himself. He teaches believers who He is, what He thinks, and how He acts. Knowing the ways of the Lord ensures that we make wise decisions, which honor Him.

The Bible is also God’s instruction book for living. I emphasize reading it every day because believers cannot be spiritually successful or victorious without it. In today’s passage, we read that if a person wants to be righteous, his or her life must comply with the principles of Scripture. Of course, the only way to know what those principles are is to read, study, and meditate upon the Word.

God’s Word is our most valuable possession. Casting it aside is as foolish as tossing away a wallet full of money. Among the Bible’s riches are stories teaching us how to serve the Lord and principles about pleasing Him. And there is a wealth of instruction for building a righteous and meaningful life.

Here at Christian Help For Addiction Online, we pray that your struggles are becoming fewer. Trust in God, and continue to pray.  Your breakthrough might be closer then you think.

Keeping Life Simple

The world bombards us with messages that nourish feelings of inferiority. Happiness and satisfaction are promised if we will only drive the latest car, wear the newest styles, or build up those muscles while losing unsightly pounds. If we do not guard against the onslaught of commercialism, it will drive the truth of God from our minds, and we will pursue a fruitless search for adequacy and value.

So often we look at externals to prove to ourselves and others that we’re valuable. Or we think, If only I were better-looking, richer, or smarter, I would be accepted and esteemed. It’s not wise to let others’ opinions and standards determine our feelings about ourselves; the only accurate assessment of our worth comes from looking into the eyes of the One who loved us enough to die in our place.

Christ loves us just the way we are, whether we are rich or poor, addicted or not. We don’t have to impress others, or be influenced by their dysfunctional behavior. Read your bible this week. Start with the book of Psalms. It will help give you guidance and strength in difficult times. God bless…

Christian Help For Addiction Onlne-AddictionHelp Online-Drug Addiction_Alcholo Addiction

Gambling Addiction

 

Christian Help For Addiction, Addiction Help, Addiction Help Online, Gambling Addiction, Drug Addiction, Alcohol Addiction.

How To Break An Addiction To Marijuana

Hi everybody…here is a great article on Marijuana addiction. The funny thing is that there are many people who I speak with that don’t believe Marijuana is addicting, or could lead to a Marijuana addiction….here’s a general view of addiction…an addiction is a chronic neurobiologic disorder that has genetic, psychosocial, and environmental dimensions and is characterized by one of the following: the continued use of a substance despite its detrimental effects, impaired control over the use of a drug (compulsive behavior), and preoccupation with a drug’s use for non-therapeutic purposes (i.e. craving the drug).

Christian Shire
Marijuana is addictive and there is a syndrome of withdrawal that will occur whenever a dependent person attempts to quit their habit.
Marijuana is not terribly dangerous over the short run, but the consequences of long term use and addiction are a greater risk for certain cancers, some cognitive and learning deficits, and certain social deficits. People using marijuana heavily are not as able to realize their full potential, and heavy marijuana usage can detract from quality of life.
Marijuana withdrawal symptoms
The withdrawal symptoms of marijuana cessation can include irritability, insomnia, anxiety, headaches, nausea, depression, a loss of appetite and others. The withdrawal is not dangerous, is not as severe as for some other drugs, but is very unpleasant; and during the initial few days the cravings back to marijuana can be very strong.
Too many people trying to quit their habit are unable to resist these cravings back to use of a drug that they know will take away all of these very unpleasant symptoms of withdrawal.
Try exercise…really, it works!
Because marijuana detox is not medically dangerous, there is no current pharmacological intervention to ease the pains of withdrawal, and only time will truly better the discomfort. After 3 or 4 days the intensity of withdrawal symptoms should subside considerably; and if you can make it past the first few days, you’ve got a much better chance of making it for the long term.
One very effective, free and completely safe way to reduce the intensity of the symptoms of withdrawal is through long and enjoyable exercise. To lessen the symptoms of withdrawal, and take your mind off of the constant cravings, you need to get off of the couch, and get out and get your heart pumping.
Exercise helps on a number of levels. Through sustained and vigorous activity you release endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are a “natural” way of feeling high, and a bit of exercise and the corresponding release of endorphins can do a lot to lessen feelings of anxiety, lethargy and depressions.
Sustained and vigorous exercise can also fatigue the body, and hopefully lessen characteristic insomnia that can so often trigger a relapse back to use. With exercise and vigorous perspiration, you can also cleanse the body of toxins and drug metabolites; toxins that some maintain have an influence on the continuation of detox symptoms.
Getting past the first few days
Exercise is free, it will make you feel better, it keeps you busy and keeps your mind off of use; and it may even help you to sleep at night. Nothing will eliminate all of the symptoms of withdrawal but time, but by spending a few days engaged in sustained exercise, you should make those days more bearable, and you should have a much better chance at resisting temptation.
Go for a hike in the mountains, ride your bike across town, play basketball…do whatever you enjoy. It can help a lot!
If you find that you are simply unable to resist the temptations and find yourself using again, you may want to consider professional help. Getting some therapy and getting away from access to marijuana for a period may help those people unable to do it on their own.
Christian Shire is an addictions professional who writes about addiction and treatment options. To learn more about addiction, withdrawal, treatments and substance abuse, please visit http://www.choosehelp.com/
Or read the daily blog entry at http://www.troubleblog.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christian_Shire http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Break-An-Addiction-To-Marijuana&id=754187
I enjoy the part about exercise. Naturally check with your doctor first to make sure you are able to exercise, but after being cleared medically, exercise is a great stress release. Marijuana can be a problematic addiction, make sure you get help.

« Previous Page