Few families that have escaped the scourge of addiction. If not a sibling, child or spouse . . .  then a nephew, niece, or a grandchild. It crosses all demographic and economic divisions. I think of a young man in my life, whose addiction has trapped him in a cycle of homelessness, physical injury and ongoing trauma.

Addiction robs a person of their life, livelihood and cheats a family of companionship, security and peace. The tragedy of addiction plagues our nation. It rips families apart. Constant stress keeps family members anxious about what their loved one will do next.

Almost everyone I talk to has a story about addiction and its devastating consequences. The writer of the Biblical book of Proverbs warned, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise.” Proverbs 20:1

But those who are in the throes of addiction, didn’t start out thinking that the drug they took or the alcohol they drank, would one day take over their lives. Nor did most understand his or her own genetic vulnerability, making them more likely to become addicted.

Habakkuk called out his generation for the callousness of those who encouraged others to harm their bodies and their minds, “Woe to you who make your neighbors drink, Who mix in your venom even to make them drunk.” Habakkuk 2:15. He would have much to say about today’s drug trade.

While there are no easy answers to addiction, twelve step programs, therapy, and treating underlying mental illness all help. God’s desire is for health and healing. God yearns for healthy minds and bodies of those struggling with addictive substances.

Jesus said God wants us to live abundantly . . . A life of meaning, purpose and hope. It is a life God wants for everyone.

Jesus said, “The thief (addictive substances) comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

This is God’s dream for each of us.