Toxic Shame and Addiction

The cycle of addiction is expressed in a variety of ways, but just about every "cycle" demonstrates that shame comes before use. Therefore, removing shame is essential in breaking any addictive behavior whether is be drugs, food, sex or anything else.

One problem with christian counseling is the claim that "if we completely surrender of lives to Christ, we will no longer struggle with X, Y or Z." I would use caution in suggesting that if we give our whole life to Christ, we will find this kind of victory over drugs or anything else.

I have worked with addicts claiming complete victory over drugs through complete surrender to Christ, only to find them back on the streets. One problem with suggesting this "cure" is that it heaps additional shame on top of existing shame. For example, if the addict is in love with Christ and still struggling, they may feel as if they are doing something wrong.   Likewise, they may have "victory" for a period of time only to struggle later. Thinking they should be free of addiction may prevent them for seeking the necessary help they so desperately need.

The apostle Paul speaks volumes of wisdom when he said, "...everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial." That is a great summation of our freedom in Christ. He goes on to say that "...nothing can separate us from the love of God". What does this mean? In terms of our salvation, we are FREE from the penalty of sin as sin is no longer an issue for salvation. Jesus took care of sin, not only for us but the entire world. I believe (and this is my opinion) that a person can be an active user and be in love with Christ. I believe a person can be saved and use drugs. Sounds a bit crazy, but so is grace. As Paul says, "...the things I do not want to do, I keep on doing."

Unfortunately, the consequences of drug abuse are horrible; i.e., "not everything is beneficial." There is no need to expound on this. Addicts don't need to be told of the ill effects of drug abuse. Addicts need to be introduced to the radical and unfair love of God through his son Jesus Christ. Knowing "there is no condemnation" helps to remove the shame which feeds the addictive cycle.

Christ has removed death's sting. As we are no longer under the law and the power of sin is the law, sin is no longer an issue in terms of our salvation. Christ's blood was and is sufficient for the forgiveness of the entire world.