No matter what the struggle is, we often hear people emphasize what they must do to overcome addiction. The focus tends to be on actions, steps, and self-discipline. But have you ever noticed that this approach can feel like an endless cycle of pressure and performance?
Here’s the truth: true freedom is not primarily about what you do—it’s about who you are. When your identity is rooted in Christ, the chains of addiction lose their power.
Identity Over Performance
In John 3, Nicodemus came to Jesus, asking, “What must I do?”—a question many of us ask when we’re trying to break free from struggles. But Jesus didn’t give him a list of tasks. Instead, He said, “You must be born again.” (John 3:3) Why? Because transformation starts with being, not doing.
1 Peter 2:9 declares, “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.” Notice the emphasis: You are. This is not something you strive to become; it is who you already are in Christ. When you fully embrace this truth, you begin to walk in the freedom that is already yours.
A New Perspective on Struggles
Imagine a sprinter running a hurdle race—jumping over obstacles again and again. Now, picture a race official standing on the side of the track. Does he have hurdles to jump? No. Why? Because his role is different. The same applies to us. If you see yourself as someone constantly trying to overcome addiction, you will always feel like you’re in a battle. But when you see yourself as a redeemed, victorious child of God, you realize that certain struggles no longer define you.
Walk in the Spirit, Not in the Flesh
Galatians 5:16 tells us, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Notice the order—it doesn’t say, “Fight the flesh so you can walk in the Spirit.” It says, “Walk in the Spirit,” and then, naturally, the desires of the flesh lose their grip. The more you focus on pursuing God, the less power sin has over you.
Think about Colossians 3:4: “When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” Christ is your life. When that truth takes root in your heart, the battle shifts. You are not merely someone struggling to overcome addiction—you are someone in whom Christ lives.
A Call to Focus on the Holy Spirit
Rather than fighting against addiction, shift your focus to the Holy Spirit. Follow His leading. Desire the things of God. When your heart is consumed with Him, there will be no room for anything else.
I encourage you, to meditate on these truths. Freedom is not something you have to strive for—it’s something you walk in when you know who you are in Him.