Addiction is a complex and often painful struggle, affecting not only the individual but also their loved ones.

Whether it’s substances, behaviours, or even thoughts that keep us trapped, the battle against addiction can feel overwhelming. But what does God say about addiction? Does He turn away from those who struggle to break free? How does God offer hope and freedom?

The Bible never shies away from the reality of human struggles, including addiction. Scripture acknowledges the pull of sin and destructive habits. Even the Apostle Paul in Romans 7:15 describes the frustration of that inner tug of war against the pull of destructive habits, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do”.

But the Bible also speaks of God’s power to redeem and restore. John 8:36 reminds us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” God’s heart is always for freedom to become part of our story, and often, this begins by acknowledging that addiction itself, comes with a backstory that is often key to our healing.

Addiction can often be rooted in pain, trauma, or a deep longing for something to fill an emptiness inside.

This goes some way in explaining why breaking free from addiction is not just as simple as ‘stopping the behaviour’ or receiving the prayer-line encounter. Even when we do experience God’s love or healing touch, we know that breakthrough requires walk-through and staying free requires discipline and determination.

This often involves getting to the root of our addictive behaviours and allowing God to heal the pain we can finally face so that we can live free and stay free. The Bible teaches that only God can truly satisfy our deepest needs.

Psalm 107:9 says, “For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” The things we turn to for comfort or escape can never offer lasting peace, but God’s love and Presence can. God doesn’t condemn those struggling with addiction—He calls them to healing. Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His love is not conditional on our ability to fix ourselves; He meets us in our brokenness and walks with us toward wholeness.