Addiction is a battle that many face, but it is not one that must be fought alone. At its core, addiction is the compulsion to seek something outside of ourselves to alter our internal state. Whether it's through substances, shopping, food, or other behaviors, the aim is the same: to feel better, to find relief, or to escape. But the truth is that true healing and transformation come not from external sources, but from a profound internal change rooted in Christ.
The Illusion of External Change
We live in a world that tells us that our happiness and well-being depend on what happens outside of us. We are conditioned to believe that once we achieve certain milestones—such as acquiring wealth, attaining success, or finding the perfect relationship—everything will fall into place, and we’ll finally feel complete. But this is a lie that leads to disappointment.
As the Bible reminds us in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Our world may encourage us to focus on external circumstances to feel better, but true transformation begins with the renewal of our minds. The things we chase outside of ourselves can never fill the emptiness within. Only Christ can.
The Trap of Addiction
Addiction is a deceptive cycle. The more we indulge in behaviors that temporarily relieve our pain, the more we need to keep doing it to feel the same effect. We turn to substances or habits to numb the emptiness, but the relief is fleeting. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul speaks about this idea: “I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but I will not be mastered by anything.” Addiction is when we are mastered by something other than God. But God calls us to be free in Him, to not allow anything to control us.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). Freedom from addiction is found in Christ, who not only forgives but also empowers us to break free from these cycles. Through His strength, we are given the ability to resist temptation and experience true, lasting peace.
The Power of Renewing Your Mind
The journey to healing and transformation starts when we look inward and recognize that true change happens in the mind. As we renew our minds and hearts in Christ, we break the power of our old habits and patterns. Colossians 3:2 teaches us, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” When we focus our minds on Christ, we begin to see ourselves differently—through His eyes.
“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This is the promise of renewal! In Christ, we are made new, and through Him, we have the power to change. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, we begin to live with intention and purpose. We no longer live according to the flesh, but by the Spirit.
Crossing the River of Change
Change can feel uncomfortable. It’s a journey from the known into the unknown, and it often feels difficult and uncertain. Yet, God calls us to embrace change, to step out in faith, and to trust in His plan for our lives. Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” The old habits and patterns may feel familiar, but God has something new for you—a new life, a new way of thinking, and a new heart.
The process of change can feel like stepping into a river, uncertain of what’s ahead. But in these moments of discomfort, God is at work. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Trust that He is with you, transforming you, and guiding you toward the person He has created you to be.
True Transformation in Christ
Addiction doesn’t have to define you. True transformation comes not from seeking external relief, but by allowing Christ to transform you from the inside out. When we change our thinking, renew our minds, and surrender to God’s plan, we can experience lasting freedom.
Romans 8:5-6 says, “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
By setting our minds on Christ, we are empowered to live free from the chains of addiction. We begin to think differently, act differently, and feel differently. The Holy Spirit enables us to experience a life full of peace, joy, and purpose—free from the empty promises of external fixes.
Conclusion: Embrace Your New Identity in Christ
True healing begins when we stop looking outside ourselves for answers and start looking to God. He has already provided the way—through His Son, Jesus Christ. By surrendering to Him, renewing our minds, and embracing the new creation He has made us to be, we can break free from addiction and walk in the freedom He offers.
Take the First Step
If you’re longing for transformation or struggling to break free from addiction, remember this truth: you don’t have to do it alone. God is ready to walk with you every step of the way, offering strength, peace, and hope. Begin by renewing your mind through His Word and seeking Him daily.
God’s promise is clear. “The old has gone; the new is here.” True transformation begins today when you surrender to Him and trust in the power of His Spirit to make all things new.
Let me know your comments and what you think. Love you xoXo
Belmary Thomas
