Posts Tagged ‘addiction’

Beyond the Shadows

Posted: May 6, 2024 in disciples life, Kingdom Teaching, Spiritual warfare, wilderness
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Beyond the Shadows: A Journey from the Life of Addiction to Absolute Freedom in Christ, written by Dr. Russell Welch

Preface

“The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.”

 – Albert Camus

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In the heart of every person lies a yearning for freedom, a desire so profound and universal that it transcends the physical realm, touching the very essence of our being. This book is a testament to the transformative power of faith, a journey from the depths of addiction into the liberating embrace of absolute freedom in Christ. It is not merely a collection of words but a beacon of hope for those who feel ensnared by the chains of addiction, broken relationships, and disillusionment with traditional religious practices.

I was compelled to write this book not out of a desire to tell my story, but from a place of deep empathy and understanding for those who are where I once was. Struggling in the darkness, feeling utterly lost, and craving something more than what this world could offer. Through my own journey of falling and rising, I discovered a profound truth: true freedom is found not in escaping life’s trials but in facing them head-on with Christ by your side.

This book aims to bridge the gap between despair and hope, offering readers not just anecdotal evidence but tangible, practical steps towards embracing their own journey towards spiritual enlightenment and leadership. It is tailored for individuals who seek more than just fleeting moments of faith; it is for those who yearn for a radical transformation that infuses every aspect of their lives with purpose, impact, and an unwavering relationship with God.

I’ve woven throughout these pages the stories of individuals—hypothetical yet deeply rooted in reality—who mirror the struggles and aspirations of our intended readers. These narratives serve as both mirrors and windows: mirrors reflecting back your own experiences with unflinching honesty, and windows opening up to vistas of what could be if you dare to believe in what God can do through you.

Inspiration for this work sprang from various sources—personal encounters with grace, the poignant stories of those I’ve had the privilege to mentor, and most importantly, my own narrative of redemption. This journey would have been impossible without the unwavering support of family, friends, and mentors who believed in me even when I had lost all belief in myself.

As you invest your time and attention into these pages, know that you are not merely reading a book. You are embarking on a voyage towards discovering an unshakeable foundation for your life. This book is for anyone who feels trapped in cycles of addiction and disillusionment but craves a genuine transformation. It requires no prerequisites other than an open heart and a willingness to explore the depths of your soul.

Thank you for choosing to embark on this journey with me. My prayer is that as you turn each page, you will find yourself drawing closer to the absolute freedom that awaits you in Christ. May this book be a guidepost, illuminating your path as you navigate through the shadows towards a life filled with light, purpose, and an intimate relationship with God.

Continue reading, dear traveler, for within these chapters lies the blueprint for a life transformed—a life beyond the shadows.

Addiction: Free or not free?

Posted: June 25, 2018 in Kingdom Teaching, teaching
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Now Christ lives his life in you! And even though your body may be dead because of the effects of sin, his life-giving Spirit imparts life to you because you are fully accepted by God. Yes, God raised Jesus to life! And since God’s Spirit of Resurrection lives in you, he will also raise your dying body to life by the same Spirit that breathes life into you! So then, beloved ones, the flesh has no claims on us at all, and we have no further obligation to live in obedience to it. For when you live controlled by the flesh, you are about to die. But if the life of the Spirit puts to death the corrupt ways of the flesh, we then taste his abundant life. (Romans 8:10-13, TPT)        

Not to cause a stir…merely my opinion as to the finished work of the cross….          

When I look at the resurrection power of the cross and what it did for me, to say I am a recovering addict is like saying I am a recovering sinner. I can not confess either for the powerful freedom that Jesus accomplished on the cross liberated me from the lifestyles of both..I once was bound yet Praise God, for I am now free..I took one step..one action and laid my burdens down..and He in His Great faithfulness, He took them away.          

I understand the merits of programs and the desire to get people free…Yet to recite time and time again that I am still an addict to whatever is not confessing freedom into the New Creation that Christ won for us on the cross, rather it is programing I am still hostage to the old nature.          

I know people who’ve attended these programs for short periods as well as others who have attended them for many years and some have experiencrd freedom to where they no longer drink, do drugs, watch porn ect. Yet, they are not truly free for they live within the confines of an addiction mentality. I have counseled many of these same people and they are so fearful of slipping up. It is like being free and looking at an open prison door yet never daring to step out of the prison cell to experience the freedom ones been given.

The power of the Blood of the Lamb is fully capable of severing the individual from the nature of addiction.        

I have witnessed the freedom that the true revelation of the cross and what Jesus did there fully set people free including myself. I don’t have to avoid the alcohol aisle in the store because of the fear of being tempted, I can freely stroll down the isle in compete freedom knowing that addiction no longer holds me captive.        

I opened with stating this is my opinion yet the witness of seeing the miracle in others lives as well, transfers it from opinion to truth..For whom the Son sets free is free indeed.            

I welcome any individual who has not found this freedom to come and talk with me and let us together, allow Holy Spirit bring you into the place, through the revelation of the finished work of the cross, where you too can experience the complete freedom that Jesus purchased for you on the cross.          

Dr. Russ Welch, Th.D. Miracle power of Biblical counseling