When reflecting on the topic of bullying for the children’s ministry, I recalled my own painful experience in secondary school. The lies and negative words from bullies almost made me believe less of myself, but by God’s grace, I overcame it. Just as I was thankful, the Holy Spirit revealed that this battle isn’t over.
The enemy, much like human bullies, continues to press us with lies, trying to make us believe we are less than who we are. The urge to sin is a form of spiritual bullying, where the devil manipulates us to live beneath our true identity. This impacts our mental and spiritual well-being, pushing us to accept a version of ourselves that is not aligned with God’s standard.
Have you ever wondered why people feel a strong compulsion to return to destructive behaviors—like addictions they’ve renounced and recovered from—despite knowing they’ve experienced freedom from these mental health struggles?
This article explores the psychological and spiritual triggers behind relapse and offers insights into maintaining long-term emotional resilience. In addressing this question, we will discuss:
- What changes when we experience freedom from addiction
- The weak and helpless nature of the body
- The power behind addiction
- How to continuously walk in freedom
WHAT CHANGES WHEN WE EXPERIENCE FREEDOM FROM ADDICTION?
No significant physical change takes place when we are free from addiction. That’s the simple truth—you remain the same person physically.
However, man exists in three dimensions: spirit, soul, and body. The transformation occurs in our spirit. This is why it may feel like nothing major has happened. The soul and body, having grown accustomed to destructive behaviors, need time to adjust, but that won’t happen without intentional effort to align them with the freedom our spirit has already experienced.
THE WEAK AND HELPLESS NATURE OF THE BODY
We are all familiar with the phrase, “The spirit is willing, but the body is weak” (Matthew 26:41). This truth resonates even more deeply as we confront addiction.
Apostle Paul speaking in Romans 7:15 said, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate, I do.” This further illustrates the weak nature of the flesh—even apostle Paul struggled to bring his body into alignment with the spirit. You are not alone in this battle.
But does that mean we are helpless? Does it suggest we should surrender to the struggle? Absolutely not.
We are not powerless, though It may seem so because the flesh is the aspect of us we are most familiar with. The only way to bring the flesh in alignment with the spirit and soul is by fasting—suspending the activities of the flesh to explore and strengthen the spirit and soul.
To stay in control and strengthen the body, we must starve it of some of its cravings. If not, we will live and die with our dreams and goals unachieved
THE POWER BEHIND ADDICTION
The fight with addiction is not just a struggle of willpower. This is why there is no better word to describe the ordeal with addiction other than ‘battle.’
When you engage in destructive behavior but find yourself unable to quit, even with your strongest efforts, a power greater than your will is at work.
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Addiction is not just driven by dark spirits, but by territorial powers that enforce their influence over individuals. This is why even after making resolutions or attempts at discipline, many struggle to quit.
In a previous article, “How to Break Free from Addiction,” we identified two key forces to help anyone break free from these dark powers: Commitment to God and Commitment to Purpose. These are vital for breaking the chains of addiction.
HOW TO CONTINUOUSLY WALK IN FREEDOM
Some believe that once they are set free from addiction—whether through prayer, studying the Word, or aligning the spirit with the soul and body—that’s the end of the battle. In reality, that’s just the beginning of the journey. Walking in freedom is an ongoing process.
To enjoy long-term freedom, one must continually align the flesh with the spirit. This doesn’t mean denying yourself all pleasures, but it does require ensuring that your spirit and soul are not neglected. The moment they are, you are one step closer to relapse.
Many have experienced God’s help in breaking free from addiction, only to fall back into it because they focused solely on the physical aspect, neglecting the spiritual and emotional dimensions. To experience lasting freedom, here’s what you must do:
- Matthew 6:11: “Give us this day our daily bread” we can change this to “give me this day, my daily bread” – This simple phrase from the Lord’s Prayer holds the key to daily strength. Ask God for the grace you need each day to remain in charge.
- Avoid Triggers – Relapse often comes from triggers, many of which are emotional. Identify these triggers, whether they are friends, media, soft porns or overwhelming situations, and disrupt them immediately. Don’t entertain them or delay action when you notice them creeping in.
- Guard Your Body Gates – Protect your eyes, ears, mouth, and senses, for they are entry points. What defiles you and leads you closer to relapse often enters through these gates.
- Feed Your Spirit Well – You can’t expect to walk in freedom while consuming content or participating in activities that trigger your emotions toward relapse. Be careful what you see, hear, and engage with. Feed your soul with the right thing and not what will trigger your emotions.
CONCLUSION
Walking in freedom is an art—something that must be studied and mastered. It won’t be easy, but it’s important to remember that it’s a journey. There will be ups and downs, but never give up. Each day is a new opportunity to continue.
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