The Dilemma…..

Many people are trapped in lifestyles of addiction or other life-controlling problems. This includes many new Christians who desperately need discipleship to help get their lives in order. They may wander for years in their dysfunction leaving behind a trail of innocent victims and "burned bridges" or they can learn how to success­fully bring "light" to the "darkness" in their lives. But where can they go?

The “walking wounded” arrive at the front door of the church only to exit disappointed and unhealed a short time later.

Churches are already severely challenged by an ever-increasing need for personal counseling. When dysfunctional behavior is revealed or confessed, it is usually treated as an issue of sin and repentance. Very often root causes of addictive behaviors are not thoroughly confronted and personal accountability established.

	Frequently, people try to stop com­pulsive behaviors but later realize they can't stop….The cycle of guilt, fear, and shame perpetuates self-destruction.
	Fears and insecurities prevent people from asking for help.
	Low self-esteem and chronic family problems may be caused by deep-seated spiritual conflicts or an unreconciled past.
	Behavioral-based programs do not address the spiritual aspects of the problem. Plus, these high-cost programs have very little long-term success.
	Many new believers come to Christ because of unresolved conflicts. They want to be free from the oppression of life-controlling problems but need and want more personal guidance and discipleship.
	Compulsive behaviors victimize families, friends, and can, in some cases, devastate whole church congregations and communities.

The Solution…..

As Christians, we believe in a healing God. I John 1-9 reads: "If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." But decisions have consequences and behavioral ruts run deep.  For the person controlled by compulsive behavior there are two realities. One exists for the world to see and may be a model of self-control, generosity and loving kindness. The other has little regard for any­one and is willing to risk anything to fulfill his or her desires. When life-controlling problems result in repeated violations over a long time, addiction is apparent. It requires more than just an emptying of the soul. The inner vacuum must be filled with new understanding and a new way of life.