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Addiction, is it a sin or a disease?

I know by the very nature of this question it is apt to bring up all sorts of opinions and beliefs. I want to start off by saying both my partner Emily Reynolds Hartman and myself are believers. We have our opinions that are grounded in Christian teaching and beliefs. I for one am an individual who believes that addiction is a disease.

We think addiction is a two-sided sword that swings both ways.

Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not be drunk with wine, but be filled with the Holy Spirit” To me that says if we desire to follow the One we can’t be controlled by the other. I know that there are many of us that once we indulge the mental obsession changes to the physical craving that doesn’t take place in the average person. So I know in my walk If I’m not daily seeking God I’m in trouble well before the drink takes place. The separation between myself and God has already started. So to me, it’s a spiritual malady. (Defined as any disorder or disease of the body or mind especially one that is chronic or deep-seated.)

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous on Page 85 says “it is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism.

What we have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition. Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God’s will into all of our activities. “How can I best serve Thee.”

Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”

That all said it doesn’t matter what we believe sin or disease, the fact is we have a responsibility to our fellow man to help restore the fallen. When one is in darkness, it takes someone who can help cast a ray of light into their lives.
I say all this to say if you have a loved one or a friend who needs help, be the light. Show up for them. If they struggle to see they are lost seek a guide. We are many in the field of helping those with addictions. Whitman Recovery Service is only one of them. If you don’t call us seek guidance from someone who can help.

Our only goal is to be of service.