Faith and Fellowship: Overcoming Addiction with Orthodox Wisdom
And so we assume that to be freed from this passion includes warfare, but we are not afraid and we are equipped like warriors. And we must be militant with the power of God, and prayer and all the methods of treatment that are within the Orthodox Church give us this capacity to go to war against our sins on some level and to go to war against the evil spirits of darkness that are involved in lust itself.
Addiction is a tough battle, but what if faith could be your strongest ally? In this episode of 'Healing Addictions', Fr. Christophe Lepoutre dives into the Orthodox Church's unique approach to tackling addiction, particularly sexual addiction. Drawing from Romans 1, he sheds light on the profound connection between the soul and body, and why keeping them united is crucial for true healing. Fr. Christophe emphasizes the power of community and fellowship in recovery.
Sharing your struggles with others can be a game-changer, helping to bring your battles into the open and start the healing process. He also highlights the transformative role of prayer and fasting. For married couples, he suggests that a shared prayer life can strengthen their bond and invite the Holy Spirit into their relationship, fostering deeper intimacy and communion. Fear of intimacy often lurks behind addiction, turning lust into a destructive force. Fr.
Christophe explains that seeking oneness with God can help overcome these fears, leading to victory over our passions. Spiritual guidance plays a pivotal role too. Fr. Christophe talks about the importance of having a spiritual father to guide you through the journey of recovery. In marriage, this guidance can lead to the purification of the sexual relationship, involving periods of abstinence and a commitment to mutual love and holiness.
The episode also explores the dangers of separating the soul from the body through sexual addiction, likening it to death itself as it reduces a person to an object of lust. However, by embracing God's love and living a life that pleases Him, healing and wholeness become attainable. 'Healing Addictions' offers a blend of spiritual wisdom and practical advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone grappling with addiction.
Tune in to discover how faith, fellowship, and spiritual practices can pave the way to recovery.