ADDICTION

'Enslavement' to habitual sin begins with a carnal desire to satisfy one's flesh.

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. James 1:14

But 'temptation' in itself is not 'sin'. Jesus Christ was tempted, yet did not fall prey to its destructive power ... 

We do not have a high priest who cannot empathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15

When the ability to resist 'temptation' weakens, it will naturally evolve into 'consideration'. Corrupted rationale surfaces and asserts 'surrendering to sin's promised gratification is justified'.

Unless these carnal thoughts are quickly dismissed they will turn into action, and in the end ... sin can entrench itself as a soul-crippling addiction.

When you attempt to live as a Christian but are tainted by sin, something's got to give. A healthy relationship with the Lord is impossible when you are in the snare of addictive behavior. The spiritual ground on which you stand is unstable and your knees buckle. Your 'sin-sick' existence is characterized by the 'spiritual nausea' associated with a conflicted, tormented mind. 

But the Lord gives us this promise ... 

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. Romans 6:17-18

Deliverance from sin's strong arm comes through faith in Jesus Christ. He is not only there when you trust Him for salvation, but remains an ever-present source for life as God's child. If you abide in His presence chains are broken and your ongoing sanctification brings about the obedience you desperately long to experience.  

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36

If you suffer from any addiction, repent and put it under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. 

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.  John 3:17

Trust Him ... He is worthy.