Submitted Anonymously
"For years , I was a marijuana user. I always wanted to quit but it was such a habit that I found it hard to break.
At the start of each year, I would declare that I would not purchase another bag of weed when my current supply ran out. And each year by January 3rd. I was calling my connect for a re-up. I felt like if other people were not smoking but yet were dealing with life on life's term, then why couldn't I? I was so use to hanging out with friends or coming home and unwinding by lighting up that I could not imagine what life would be without that routine. I guess I was scared of what my life would be like with that change. Well after a near death experience, I decided that I had enough and that I needed to focus on being a better, more alert individual. I stopped cold turkey.
After a week, I noticed that I was the same not high as I was high. I never knew I would have the same personality because I had never stepped out of my comfort zone. Almost four years later, I have gotten to the point that I can be around it and not even have the desire to partake in it. I feel empowered over my life and not just along for the ride like I use to feel. I give all the glory to God because he was patient with me during my struggle and listened to all my prayers.
I would like to encourage anyone who is struggling with any form of addiction, be it substances, food, sex, pornography, a toxic relationship, or something else, to believe that you can overcome.
Ephesians 6:12 states " 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 a spirit. By praying against the particular form of that spirit, its hold over you can be broken. This not only requires prayer but must also be accompanied by fasting. Fasting serves as a power punch in the spiritual realm. These spirits can be subdued and overcome. The first step to overcoming is to have the desire. You must be tired of your current situation and ready for change. This change starts with adjusting your mindset about what it is that you want for yourself. Next, , the changing of habits or atmospheres that promote your current circumstances. Whether it is disassociating yourself from old people, places, and things, this is crucial to overcoming your burden. Begin professing with your mouth that you will no longer he held in bondage to that thing you would like to separate yourself from.
According to Proverbs 18:21, " Life and death are in the power of the tongue and those who love it will eat the its fruit". Start speaking life over your situation and it will begin to manifest itself. Job 22:28 states " Thou shall also decree a thing and it shall be established unto thee". Please allow these scriptures to take shape in your life and believe that change is possible."
To my anonymous submission, thank you for your story and your vulnerability to address your issues. You are right.. when YOU are tired of your current situation, that's when you're ready to change. Thank you for acknowledging substance abuse can take any shape, as something as small as marijuana. As a people, we do not acknowledge it.
I am proud of you and your journey. Keep thriving and keep praying.
If yourself or someone else is dealing with substance abuse, there is nothing wrong with seeking help.
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