Radical Freedom E-Book

Melissa Huray

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Seitenzahl: 348

Beschreibung

Find hope and healing on the road to recovery.   Whether you're beginning your journey or have been walking the path for a while, recovery from addiction can be a long and lonely road with shame and fear as companions.   In Radical Freedom, Melissa Huray walks with you through all stages of recovery. This devotional features 365 days of encouraging Scripture, thoughtful prayers, and practical advice from someone who's been in your shoes. Learn to   - harness the power of faith, - stay strong in the face of temptation, - make positive, lasting change, - leave behind the pain of your past, and - find hope for a new beginning.   Take one day at a time and let Radical Freedom be a source of light on your road ahead.  

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC

Savage, Minnesota, USA

Broadstreetpublishing.com

Radical Freedom: Breaking the Chains of Addiction for Good

Copyright © 2024 Melissa Huray

9781424567126 (faux leather)

9781424567133 (ebook)

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation. Copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible® (NASB). Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Scripture marked KJV are taken from the King James Version of the Bible, public domain. Scripture quotations marked ASV are taken from the American Standard Version, public domain. Scripture quotations marked NLV are taken from the New Life Version. Copyright © 1969 and 2003. Used by permission of Barbour Publishing, Inc., Uhrichsville, Ohio 44683.

Cover and interior by Garborg Design Works | garborgdesign.com

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The bondage to addiction brings a great deal of regret, pain, and brokenness. It’s time to stop feeling ashamed of your story and instead let God use it to lead others out of the darkness. It is through this lens that I wrote this devotional for you.

Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: All Things New

January 2: Control the Mind

January 3: Sober Minded

January 4: Temptation Awaits

January 5: Mental Recalibration

January 6: Place God First

January 7: Seek His Guidance

January 8: Fully Submit

January 9: Expect Trouble

January 10: Next Right Thing

January 11: Do Not Be Afraid

January 12: Suit Up and Show Up

January 13: Bring Your Brokenness

January 14: Follow the Leader

January 15: Hold On Tight

January 16: Cause for Celebration

January 17: Carry Your Cross

January 18: Unchanging Truth

January 19: Life Assurance

January 20: He Sees You

January 21: Seek the Source

January 22: The Way of Peace

January 23: No Substitutes

January 24: First Prize

January 25: What Would Jesus Do?

January 26: Grasp Goodness

January 27: Suffering Is Christlike

January 28: Lies Multiply

January 29: The Power of Choice

January 30: Count the Cost

January 31: Going to Extremes

February

February 1: Take the Plunge

February 2: Pick Your Battles

February 3: Sin Bites

February 4: Be Discerning

February 5: Abide in Him

February 6: Today Is the Day

February 7: Light Up My Life

February 8: Trust His Timing

February 9: Never Too Late

February 10: Don’t Panic

February 11: Let Go and Let God

February 12: All the Way

February 13: Who’s on First?

February 14: Perfect Confidence

February 15: Gather Together

February 16: Ruler of All

February 17: Hope Springs Eternal

February 18: Fireproof Faith

February 19: Choose Life

February 20: Bread from Heaven

February 21: Remain Vigilant

February 22: Living Word

February 23: Man’s Empty Praise

February 24: Jesus Paid It All

February 25: Unwavering Faith

February 26: Look Deeper

February 27: True Vision

February 28: Learn from Landmines

March

March 1: Lead with Love

March 2: Sin Is Costly

March 3: Stuck on Stupid

March 4: Girl Power

March 5: Christ Is Enough

March 6: Kingdom Mindset

March 7: Don’t Stop Believing

March 8: Believing for Breakthrough

March 9: Put Your Shame to Work

March 10: Go Your Own Way

March 11: Power Source

March 12: Growth Is Imminent

March 13: Leave Things Alone

March 14: Radical Peace

March 15: Unfailing Hope

March 16: Change Your Mind

March 17: Be Yourself

March 18: Fate of the Wicked

March 19: Release the Past

March 20: Goodness Overflows

March 21: One Day at a Time

March 22: Pray First

March 23: No Frills

March 24: A New Heart

March 25: Crazy Love

March 26: No Exceptions

March 27: Love One, Love All

March 28: The Big Picture

March 29: The Good Life

March 30: Honor the Covenant

March 31: Flee from Sin

April

April 1: Choose Your Kingdom

April 2: Stay Steadfast

April 3: Seeing the Light

April 4: Come Together

April 5: Demons Beware

April 6: Don’t Compromise

April 7: A Family Affair

April 8: Best Practices

April 9: He Sees It All

April 10: The Way Out

April 11: Jesus Satisfies

April 12: Steadfast Love

April 13: Servant’s Heart

April 14: Saving Surrender

April 15: Love Rules

April 16: Life Lessons

April 17: Keep Your Chin Up

April 18: Time Management

April 19: All Access

April 20: Second Chances

April 21: Speak Life

April 22: Fire Insurance

April 23: Posture of Surrender

April 24: Subtle Deception

April 25: Ask Wisely

April 26: Gratitude Changes Things

April 27: A Joyful Heart

April 28: Leap of Faith

April 29: Firm Foundation

April 30: Divinely Intertwined

May

May 1: Wisdom Works

May 2: Faith Moves Mountains

May 3: The Great Equalizer

May 4: Blessed Assurance

May 5: Something Supernatural

May 6: Stay in Position

May 7: Show, Don’t Tell

May 8: He Is Your Vindicator

May 9: Eternal Reward

May 10: Help Wanted

May 11: Stay Salty

May 12: Fear the Lord

May 13: Holding Out

May 14: Waymaker

May 15: Whom Will You Serve?

May 16: In His Will

May 17: Justice Is Served

May 18: Fulfilled Dreams

May 19: Paying the Piper

May 20: Total Trust

May 21: All Have Fallen

May 22: Book of Love

May 23: Unstoppable God

May 24: True Change

May 25: No Guarantees

May 26: Addicted to Love

May 27: Safe Haven

May 28: Think like Him

May 29: Change Is Possible

May 30: First Response

May 31: Rock Steady

June

June 1: Know Your Worth

June 2: Faith Builders

June 3: Purge Fear

June 4: Life Renewed

June 5: Trust in Him

June 6: Come One, Come All

June 7: Comeback Kid

June 8: Holy Roller

June 9: Simon Says

June 10: Somebody’s Knockin’

June 11: Upside Down

June 12: Life on Loan

June 13: Top Priority

June 14: True Service

June 15: Lay It Down

June 16: Your Will Alone

June 17: Endless Love

June 18: Call on Him

June 19: Don’t Hold Back

June 20: Let Him Lead

June 21: High on Health

June 22: The Way to Life

June 23: Good Company

June 24: Eyes on the Prize

June 25: Shelter from the Storm

June 26: Uphold the Law

June 27: Reject Pride

June 28: Don’t Fight It

June 29: Let Loose

June 30: Faith in Action

July

July 1: True Colors

July 2: Looks Can Be Deceiving

July 3: True Repentance

July 4: Sin Corrupts

July 5: Burn Brightly

July 6: The True Way

July 7: Next Level Faith

July 8: Tables Turned

July 9: Who Are You?

July 10: Part Ways

July 11: Share Your Story

July 12: Total Restoration

July 13: Please God

July 14: Remain in Him

July 15: God Loves It When You Sing

July 16: Subject to Change

July 17: Supernatural Security

July 18: Resurrection Power

July 19: Set Free

July 20: Life Everlasting

July 21: Redeemed

July 22: Change of Heart

July 23: Keys for Life

July 24: Turn to God

July 25: Today’s Gift

July 26: Clear Conscience

July 27: Set in Stone

July 28: Walk the Talk

July 29: True Devotion

July 30: Driver’s Seat

July 31: Paid in Full

August

August 1: Be Ready

August 2: Reimagine Prayer

August 3: True Followers

August 4: Stand Strong

August 5: Truth Test

August 6: Time Well Spent

August 7: Final Countdown

August 8: Practice Control

August 9: Forever Faithful

August 10: Twisted Scriptures

August 11: Have No Fear

August 12: Until the End

August 13: Avoid Offense

August 14: The Big Boss

August 15: Rejoice Always

August 16: Take a Stand

August 17: Pursuit of Jesus

August 18: All You Need Is Love

August 19: Plenty for Everyone

August 20: Lead Fearlessly

August 21: Bearing Witness

August 22: The Real Thing

August 23: Willing for Wellness

August 24: Pursue the Lost

August 25: Stay Faithful

August 26: Release the Hurt

August 27: Cheerful Giving

August 28: Finish Strong

August 29: Rock Solid

August 30: Walk Humbly

August 31: Seek Truth

September

September 1: First Things First

September 2: Choose Well

September 3: Wise Counsel

September 4: Get Ready

September 5: Respect Yourself

September 6: Give Grace

September 7: Touchy Topic

September 8: True Brotherhood

September 9: Use Your Words

September 10: What’s the Point?

September 11: Check Yourself

September 12: Live with Purity

September 13: God before People

September 14: Exercise Good Judgment

September 15: Walking Wounded

September 16: True Identity

September 17: It’s Not about You

September 18: Devil in Disguise

September 19: Crucify the Flesh

September 20: Kingdom Riches

September 21: Exclusive Rights

September 22: Justice for All

September 23: Name above All

September 24: Spread the News

September 25: Live Righteously

September 26: Be Fearless

September 27: Rescue Mission

September 28: Backsliders Beware

September 29: The Good Book

September 30: God’s Story

October

October 1: Lonely Road

October 2: Divine Intervention

October 3: Here I Am

October 4: Master the Flesh

October 5: Stand Firm

October 6: Best Friends

October 7: Judge the Fruit

October 8: True Blood

October 9: True Love

October 10: Obey the Spirit

October 11: Clean Slate

October 12: Solid State

October 13: Humble Yourself

October 14: Just Call Me Jeffrey

October 15: Beautifully Simple

October 16: My Defender

October 17: Quality Time

October 18: Anger Management

October 19: Proceed with Caution

October 20: It’s That Simple

October 21: Honor Your Body

October 22: Money Matters

October 23: It Pays to Be Wise

October 24: Out of Order

October 25: Greatest Gift

October 26: Power Play

October 27: Morning Rejoicing

October 28: Attitude Shift

October 29: Don’t Delay

October 30: Wasted Worries

October 31: Get Over Yourself

November

November 1: Flip the Script

November 2: Lessons Learned

November 3: Let Hope Arise

November 4: His Agenda

November 5: Love in Action

November 6: Burning Your Influence

November 7: Unanswered Prayers

November 8: Rivers of Peace

November 9: Perfect Love

November 10: Pray It Forward

November 11: The Power of Prayer

November 12: Priority Reset

November 13: Trust the Spirit

November 14: Tireless Pursuit

November 15: Take Action

November 16: Perfect Will

November 17: Not One and Done

November 18: Trust the Word

November 19: The Greatest Story

November 20: For His Glory

November 21: No Lost Causes

November 22: Take Heart

November 23: Stay Focused

November 24: Lean on Him

November 25: Right Motives

November 26: God Honoring

November 27: Better Together

November 28: Straight from the Heart

November 29: Ripple Effect

November 30: Be Willing

December

December 1: Fresh Fruit

December 2: Joyful Giving

December 3: Truth Wins

December 4: Be the Church

December 5: Ask and Obey

December 6: Choose to Submit

December 7: You vs. You

December 8: Patience Is a Virtue

December 9: Love Actually

December 10: Deliver with Love

December 11: Package Deal

December 12: Surrender and Start

December 13: Do It Scared

December 14: Wishful Thinking

December 15: Calling Heaven

December 16: Make It Count

December 17: Just Get Along

December 18: Rock of Ages

December 19: Holy Distributors

December 20: Spiritual Fight

December 21: Believe in the Impossible

December 22: People Are People

December 23: Kingdom Love

December 24: Stop Selling

December 25: Faithful Living

December 26: Hold Steady

December 27: Open Your Heart

December 28: Finding Freedom

December 29: Speak Up

December 30: Boundaries

December 31: Your Time

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Introduction

I spent fifteen years on the merry-go-round of binge drinking, routinely to the point of blacking out. I experienced a great deal of shame and embarrassment because of it, and it sent me on a desperate, endless search for answers.

I visited self-help groups, saw therapists, read books, and followed gurus. I exhausted myself trying to follow a million broken pieces of well-intentioned advice. Everything offered a small amount of relief, but nothing lasted. Most literature I investigated suggested that the only remedy was white-knuckling through life and hoping to avoid relapse. The idea that I was saddled with a “disease” forever made me feel completely hopeless that I would ever truly change. I wanted total freedom. I finally found it, but not through the world’s offerings.

Addictive choices are sinful and idolatrous and require repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit to change. A Christ-centered approach to addiction recovery illuminates the message of hope found in the Bible. God has taken a tapestry of life experience—addiction, binge eating, divorce, spiritual warfare, forays into the occult, and marital brokenness—and turned it all for the good. These experiences became the content for this book.

I believe the Holy Spirit inspired the words on these pages and delivered them through me. I hope you find healing in this devotional, and I hope it helps lead you to a relationship with Jesus Christ, who yearns to show you the way out. He is the doorway to total freedom.

January

 

JANUARY 1

All Things New

“I am doing a new thing;now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

ISAIAH 43:19 ESV

There is nothing quite like the fresh start that comes with turning the calendar to a brand-new year. But for someone struggling with addiction, each morning is simply a repeat of the one before—shame, dread, withdrawal, and lies. Fudging the truth, cheating, and hiding are their tired, old companions greeting them each new day. The voice of the Enemy and self-delusion deceive them into believing things will be different, but things will never change as long as they refuse to accept the truth. It’s time to face reality: our behaviors, compulsions, and refusal to repent are slowly killing us. Jesus offers us an abundant life, but it will remain out of reach until we surrender and repent. Today is the day to renounce the idolatry of addiction and to take the first step toward freedom.

Surrender

Today I decide to stop addictive behaviors. I will list new, healthy habits to implement.

 

JANUARY 2

Control the Mind

We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.

2 CORINTHIANS 10:5 NLT

When I was compulsively drinking, I let the chips fall wherever they may. Something, usually fear or worry, would suddenly creep up on me, and I was powerless to stop the troublesome thought or feeling from becoming the catalyst for a flood of other bleak thoughts and ideas. Intense feelings can result in irrational, extreme behaviors, and the wreckage can extend far beyond mere mental distractions. Left unchecked, upsetting emotions can bring disruptions that lead to actions—more commonly, reactions. Knee-jerk responses birthed from intense emotional states are rarely helpful or productive. A new mindset is crucial to staying ahead of the temptation to succumb to addictive drives. We must control the mind before it takes over control of the body to prevent regrettable decisions and undesirable consequences. Taking each thought captive is critical prevention against sin and remorse.

Surrender

Today I will identify negative thoughts and beliefs that have led to upsetting emotions or actions I later regretted.

 

JANUARY 3

Sober Minded

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

1 PETER 5:8 NKJV

Let me introduce you to your prime adversary: the devil. Oh, and don’t forget his legion of demons. He is an often-present foe who requires just enough attention—but not too much. He would love for us to ignore him, let our defenses down, and fall blindly into one of his plentiful traps. Most people are blissfully clueless to the supernatural kingdom of darkness and its very real and destructive agenda. Start each day with a prayer of protection against dark forces and ask God to illuminate spiritual darkness with his holy light. Now for the good news: Jesus outranks the devil, so put your faith in his power to fight every battle alongside you. When you walk in obedience, Jesus faithfully guides every step and helps you steer clear of the devil’s landmines.

Surrender

Today I will make a list of how I have given the devil a foothold, and I will repent.

 

JANUARY 4

Temptation Awaits

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.

1 CORINTHIANS 10:13 NIV

Over ten years ago, I made a decision that I didn’t realize would carry devastating consequences. Though I felt trepidation and conviction all the way, I went ahead and acted on a desire to settle the score with someone else. Stone-cold sober at the time, I had no one to blame but myself. To say “the devil made me do it” would not even be accurate because he was not my deceiver that time. Literally minutes before I made this life-changing decision, my phone rang. It was a dear friend of mine, a pastor, a man of God. His name flashed on my phone’s display, and in a fraction of a second, I dismissed God’s lifeline. He would later say he felt led to reach out to me at that moment. God usually won’t override our free will but promises to provide a way out when we are tempted. I rejected the escape hatch and had to pay the consequences.

Surrender

Today when I feel uncertainty or shame, I will ask Jesus for strength to resist temptation.

 

JANUARY 5

Mental Recalibration

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

ROMANS 12:2 NIV

It may seem like quitting addictive behaviors and walking with Jesus is the perfect prescription for a pain-free life, but that’s not how it works. Though I was instantly freed of the urge to drink after a sincere prayer of repentance, I remained broken in other ways. Leaving alcohol behind was just the beginning of my journey to wholeness. The moment we completely surrender to the will of God, the messy road to sanctification begins. To repent means to turn away from the old, sinful life and toward the way of Jesus, and that means everything—including our thoughts. When I wake up saddled with a depressing outlook or negative thoughts, I battle the desire to stay in bed through a deliberate pursuit of praise and worship. The Lord inhabits the praises of his people, so start with a grateful attitude, and God will meet you there.

Surrender

Today I will remain aware of my mood, and if I feel unwanted emotions, I will ask God for help and motivation.

 

JANUARY 6

Place God First

“You must not have any other god but me.”

EXODUS 20:3 NLT

Old Testament practices of idol worship and bowing down before gods may seem ancient and irrelevant, but are they truly so far from reality today? Addiction is the ultimate form of idolatry, as active addicts give their drug of choice priority over everything. Americans today submit to many gods: money, self, pleasure, drugs, work, even their spouses. When I married in 2004, I’d been sober for over a year and felt stable, but soon my husband became my new addiction. As a young newlywed, I was so enamored with him that God shifted to second place. I’d later learn the hard way that elevating a person to the status of a deity is extremely dangerous indeed. To become dependent upon a relationship, job, possession, or experience to gain security, purpose, or fulfillment is a recipe for disaster. Even the most rock-solid and devout human being is fallible. Learn to trust and have faith in God alone. He deserves nothing less than first place.

Surrender

Today I will focus on seeking God first in all areas of my life.

 

JANUARY 7

Seek His Guidance

“Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD.”

JEREMIAH 17:5 ESV

My first attempt at sobriety was all backward. Desperate for answers, I frantically sought the world’s offerings: outpatient treatment, AA groups, self-help books, and medications. Nothing I investigated was inherently bad but putting them before God was. Because I refused to acknowledge my Lord and Savior first, everything ultimately failed, and after brief stints of sobriety, another relapse always lurked around the corner. The first time I read today’s verse, it blew my mind. The prophet Jeremiah wrote that we are cursed when we seek answers from people instead of from God. This does not mean that we don’t need or benefit from the wise counsel of other Christians or professionals. But we should pursue God first. We honor him when we seek his guidance, and in turn, he will bless our obedience and faithfully open the right doors.

Surrender

Today I will remain fully aware of my tendency to seek earthly things before seeking God.

 

JANUARY 8

Fully Submit

“You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.”

GENESIS 50:20 NKJV

Partying in true Prince fashion, my 1999 kicked off with a drunk driving arrest instead of a bright harbinger of fun. But my run-in with law enforcement failed to serve as an enduring wake-up call. Just months later, I became a repeat offender after rear-ending a lady while I was in a drunken stupor. God didn’t waste my mistake though. Instead, he used it to press pause on my recklessness, forcing me to seriously evaluate the trajectory of my life. The woman I had crashed into later breathed fresh hope into my situation by offering grace and forgiveness. Suddenly I grasped the possibility that maybe I could stop drinking. An eighteen-month break from booze didn’t bring complete freedom, though clarity of mind and promptings of the Holy Spirit began to get my attention. Most importantly, God performed a great refining work and revealed the temporary nature of any recovery effort not driven by him. When fully submitted, even our bad decisions can be redeemed.

Surrender

Today I will lay all of my mistakes at the feet of Jesus.

 

JANUARY 9

Expect Trouble

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

JOHN 16:33 NLT

After the Lord delivered me of all addictions in 2003, I wore rose-colored glasses for many years. Although I expected some hardship, I was completely blind to the fact that my marriage was heading for catastrophe. One afternoon while floundering in a pit of despair, I stumbled upon John 16:33, and truth from the lips of Jesus restored my sanity. Praise the Lord that my marriage survived and that I was spared urges to drink in the process. Sober or not, life on earth is no easy ride. God never wastes seasons of trouble, always using trials to draw willing hearts closer to him. Let the truth of John 16:33 sink deep into your soul. God is the only way to peace. No matter what may happen on this earthly journey, Jesus has conquered it all. That’s a promise you can trust with your life.

Surrender

Today I will rise above my circumstances and remember that Jesus intimately understands every trouble I face.

 

JANUARY 10

Next Right Thing

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

PROVERBS 3:5–6 NIV

Life is often overwhelming, and the tendency to avoid, procrastinate, or isolate may consume us. As a kid, I was a night owl who adored staying up late watching television when I was supposed to be doing homework or sleeping. In the moment, it was fun, but the next morning, I was tired, frazzled, and unprepared. It’s the same for adults sometimes. We go for the pleasant stuff first and delay the things that require our immediate attention. But we can save ourselves a ton of unnecessary stress and misery simply by doing the next right thing. Whenever you are feeling unmotivated, depressed, or uncertain, ask God to show you what to do next and faithfully follow through.

Surrender

Today I will stay in the moment with God and ask him to guide my path.

 

JANUARY 11

Do Not Be Afraid

“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.What can mere mortals do to me?”

HEBREWS 13:6 NIV

Habitual binge drinking brought a constant state of terror. I lived in fear of being “found out.” I faced financial uncertainty and worried about getting fired from my job. My most familiar demon was panicking about the things I did while blackout drunk. The worry of exposure plagued me day and night, and I scrambled to cover my tracks so that my shaky reputation wouldn’t be soiled further. Even walking into an AA meeting filled me with the intense fear that someone would recognize me, exposing my dirty secret. Like a hungry beast, agreeing with the devil’s lies invites more domination and control. Coming clean about your sin and trusting God to handle the fallout is incredibly freeing. You’ll never regret doing the right thing, and your Helper will be with you every step of the way.

Surrender

Today I lay all my fears at the foot of the cross of Christ and trust him to protect me from my enemies.

 

JANUARY 12

Suit Up and Show Up

Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

EPHESIANS 6:12 NIV

Many people spend extensive energy dwelling on past hurts, unexpected circumstances, and painful regrets. A victim mentality will darken the mind, rendering us ineffective for God. Disappointments and unmet expectations simply camouflage the real threat: the kingdom of darkness governed by the devil. Each day, ask Jesus to open your eyes to the battle in the supernatural realm and to show you how to fight. Then equip yourself with the full armor of God to stand strong against the Enemy. Keep the supernatural realm in proper perspective by giving it just the right amount of attention—not too much, not too little. Keep your eyes firmly on Jesus and his supreme authority as you battle with demons.

Surrender

Today I put on the full armor of God and ask Jesus to open my eyes to the forces of darkness.

 

JANUARY 13

Bring Your Brokenness

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

ROMANS 8:28 NLT

Most addicts have assembled a treasury of wasted years—time spent drunk, high, seeking a fix, or trying to recover. Once sober, it’s normal to think about the past as a whole lot of wasted time. Maybe you’ve missed milestones, squandered opportunities, or can’t overcome thoughts of what could have been. Let me encourage you! It’s not too late to dedicate the rest of your life to absolute service to God. All it takes is a sincere desire to take every bit of the broken past—every hurt, lost moment, and forsaken opportunity—and give it to Jesus. He promises to make something beautiful from all the shattered pieces and to use the rest of your life for his purposes.

Surrender

Today I will stop dwelling on past regrets, and I will trust God to make something beautiful from my mistakes.

 

JANUARY 14

Follow the Leader

If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

ROMANS 10:9 NKJV

Eschatology, soteriology, end times, pre- or post-tribulation? With so many denominations, biblical interpretations, and ideas about how the story of the Bible is playing out today, it is easy to feel confused and overwhelmed. Thankfully, the apostle Paul spelled it out very plainly for us in the book of Romans: just declare Jesus is Lord, believe in him, and follow his ways. No fancy training, research, or credentials are needed to surrender your life to Jesus. Simply declare him King and believe God raised him from the dead. That is all it takes for a transformation to start. Repent of your sins and ask for a new heart, one that is tender and willing to serve. A genuine expression of faith will lead to a changed life and the desire to follow the commands of Jesus.

Surrender

Today I will share the simple message of the gospel with someone else.

 

JANUARY 15

Hold On Tight

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again.”

EXODUS 14:13 NIV

Sometimes it’s a fight to hold your head up. Unexpected things happen, and something as common as a sick child is enough to disrupt an otherwise normal routine. My daughter once missed the bus, so I had to drive her to school in a snowstorm, and on the way home, I got stuck in a snowbank. We all have days that will push our buttons, frazzle our nerves, and test our limits. The trick is to minimize the damage, focus on gratitude, and seek God right in the middle of the disruptions and stress. Every once in a while, it’s okay to just remain steady, to rest, and to not make progress toward your goals. Hold tight, trust in the Lord, and avoid making a bad situation worse.

Surrender

Today I will remember to breathe and ask God for help in each moment, particularly during stressful situations.

 

JANUARY 16

Cause for Celebration

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

ROMANS 8:1 ESV

After we are delivered from addiction, the Enemy will work tirelessly to keep us tethered to upsetting memories of our old, sinful ways. It is often a delicate balance to embrace a new life in Christ while still cleaning up old wreckage. Regaining the trust of others takes patience and perseverance. We will need to prove ourselves to some, and those close to us might expect to see consistency from us before believing our changes are genuine. But wallowing in shame or beating ourselves up is unnecessary and unhelpful. We have been changed by the power of the Holy Spirit, so it’s okay to feel joy even while dealing with past mistakes. Jesus paid for every sin—past, present, and future—and that’s cause for celebration! His commands are not burdensome, and he isn’t asking for the moon, just simple repentance and a desire to obey.

Surrender

Today I surrender every part of my past to the care of Jesus, and I will remember that he took my shame and mistakes to the cross.

 

JANUARY 17

Carry Your Cross

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

MATTHEW 16:24 ESV

Recovered addicts are some of the strongest, most resilient people around. When I was actively drinking, I could power through a hangover like nobody’s business, but faking normalcy took a great deal of energy. Some addicts are expert drug dealers, hustlers, master manipulators, and con artists. Once we are finally free to channel addictive drives into positive outlets, we become unstoppable vessels for the Lord. Dying to self and offering Jesus complete access to our lives changes everything. Through trusting him, we can escape the nightmare of addiction with resiliency far exceeding that of the average person. Glorify God by using your gifts, talents, and grit for the kingdom.

Surrender

Today I will ask God to use my life as a living sacrifice.

 

JANUARY 18

Unchanging Truth

“What is truth?” Pilate asked. Then he went out again to the people and told them, “He is not guilty of any crime.”

JOHN 18:38 NLT

When I was actively addicted, I clung to the shifting sands of emotions, culture, and the moods of others for guidance. I searched all around for meaning and identity, but the rules of my environment were constantly changing. As the world slips further into demonic deception, people seek to dismantle truth by denying its exclusivity. Author and apologist Frank Turek wrote, “Contrary beliefs are possible, but contrary truths are not possible.”1 There is only one true way to heaven and one influencer worth following, and his name is Jesus. Culture cannot be our bedrock. We need a stable, unchanging compass for guidance. We need God. Whenever you’re confused, disturbed, or anxious, press into the Word of God and listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit. His truth never changes.

Surrender

Today I will rely on the unwavering truth found only in the presence of the Holy Trinity and the Word of God.

 

JANUARY 19

Life Assurance

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

JOHN 14:6 ESV

Active addiction tends to block our minds from thinking about the future because our top priority is surviving the day. But recovery brings a fresh wake-up call to the reality that we need to protect our assets. Instead of living in the moment, we begin wondering if retirement is even possible and considering those whom we will leave behind when we pass from this world. But as we’re haggling over term or whole life insurance, death benefits, and cash values, we need to remember that everything on earth is temporary. Financial planning is important and will help relieve stress about the unknown, but we can find total assurance and everlasting life only in Jesus.

Surrender

Today I will ask Jesus to help me stay focused on eternity as I navigate my earthly journey.

 

JANUARY 20

He Sees You

Hagar used another name to refer to the Lord, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?”

GENESIS 16:13 NLT

Because of my fragile sense of identity, mirrors were some of my best friends as a teenager. I’d gaze into any available reflective surface just to make sure I existed, later finding temporary acceptance in fleeting relationships, keg parties, and the brief recognition that came from my job as a small-market television news anchor. Once I sought God and was delivered of addiction, I realized my flimsy secular substitutes could never satisfy my deep need to be seen. My quest for external validation was replaced by an intense desire to know Jesus. In good times and in bad, when you’re feeling alone and unappreciated, remember that God’s eyes will never leave you, not even for a moment.

Surrender

Today I will remember that I am never out of God’s sight. He loves me like no one else can.

 

JANUARY 21

Seek the Source

“Let me have silence, and I will speak,and let come on me what may.”

JOB 13:13 ESV

Because of Jesus, we have an open door to the presence of God. Do you realize how amazing that is? We don’t need fancy rites, rituals, or ceremonies, no blood sacrifices, long prayers, or appointments. God Almighty is ready and waiting to speak to you anytime, anywhere. Nothing is more important than learning to hear God speak to your very own heart. Most of us dwell within an exhausting rat race of distractions, and the still, small voice of Jesus won’t fight through chaos. Discipline yourself to find quiet space within the cares of life, whether it’s thirty seconds, five minutes, or five hours. Bring all your praises, cares, worries, and petitions, and practice sitting quietly in his presence. He will speak if you are willing to listen.

Surrender

Today I will spend quiet time at the feet of Jesus, thanking, praising, and sharing my concerns.

 

JANUARY 22

The Way of Peace

This is the confidence that we have toward him,that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.

1 JOHN 5:14 ESV

Living outside of God’s will created a life of endless chaos for me. I made major life decisions impulsively and pursued my own interests, goals, and pleasures. My frantic desire to avoid being alone repeatedly drove me into the wrong relationships. Jesus was simply a figure of old, and the Bible was an irrelevant book taking up space and collecting dust on my bookshelf. Deep in my addiction, my prayers were crisis-oriented: God, please get me out of this or Please let me make it home without getting arrested. I never bothered to ask God what was best for my life or to seek his will. When I finally surrendered and made Jesus my Lord, life took on incredible meaning and purpose, and I was finally able to experience the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Surrender

Today I will seek God’s perfect will in each moment and wait for his guidance.

 

JANUARY 23

No Substitutes

Seek the LORD and his strength;seek his presence continually!

1 CHRONICLES 16:11 ESV

The search for meaning draws many to New Age teachings and the empty promises of self-promotion, happiness, and material success. Thought gurus and prosperity gospel pastors preach blasphemies about thinking things into being and attracting possessions, people, and situations. These fairy tales are directly opposed to biblical teachings. In the book of Romans, Paul urges followers to abandon empty worldly pursuits to seek Jesus—the true source of all wisdom and power. Transformation begins with turning from trends, fads, and fallible people to the Lord. Humble obedience will bring rock-solid assurance of his ability to meet every need. The world and its candy-coated allure will fade as we seek true nourishment.

Surrender

Today I will repent and change from my old, self-directed thinking to trusting Jesus completely.

 

JANUARY 24

First Prize

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

1 CORINTHIANS 9:24 NIV

Exercise was something I completely avoided until I was thirty. Keeping my demons in check was enough of a workout, and navigating the workday consumed all the energy I could muster. But when I was delivered of addiction, I fell in love with running and began to experience great joy in working for a natural reward. The Holy Spirit even began to speak to me during workout time. I have received some of my best writing ideas while working out. Leisure activities and hobbies can become God-honoring when we do them exclusively for his glory, and he often blesses us during these times if our hearts remain free of self-promotion. Instead of trying to win a physical prize or award, I devote this time to God. Having a healthy body enables us to better serve him.

Surrender

Today I will use my body in a way that honors God, and I will reflect on the joy that awaits with Jesus after I complete this earthly race.

 

JANUARY 25

What Would Jesus Do?

Godliness with contentment is great gain.

1 TIMOTHY 6:6 ESV

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