While Christian recovery programs share similarities with secular recovery programs, there are fundamental differences. A Christian recovery program is based on the 12 Steps, which is probably the most famous form of Christian recovery program in the world. The 12 Steps were adopted by Alcoholics Anonymous and is often called the official road map to sobriety.
The most striking component of a Christian recovery program is its reliance on Biblical study and learning the scripture. The Bible provides strength and reassurance that the love of Jesus Christ will provide encouragement through the recovery journey. Daily study of the Word only adds to the benefits of a Christian recovery program.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away, behold, all things become new."
The power of Jesus Christ helps heal the spiritual destruction of drug and alcohol addiction, and at the same time, heals the spiritual absence that allowed the addiction to develop. Through individual and group therapy, Christian recovery programs help the addict to realize that the addiction to Christ's love and forgiveness is much more satisfying than any drug or alcohol addiction. Christian recovery programs are successful because of their Biblical foundation and the knowledge that Christ forgives every sin.
Christian recovery programs offer comfort and security with others who are experiencing the same journey to sobriety. The feeling that one is not alone, especially in a frightening situation, is an empowering one and only helps propel the addict to a new and healthy life. Cognitive behavioral therapy provides a critical tool for teaching how to change destructive behaviors, while teaching the addict coping strategies. Christian recovery programs encourage personal responsibility and accountability, which are important in increasing the chances of achieving a long-term sobriety. These life lessons will also help minimize the chances of relapse into old habits.
It is important to remember that Christian recovery programs involve the family in the recovery journey. A quality Christian recovery program values the strength of a loving and supportive family unit and church community. Christian recovery programs focus on the entire individual - physical, emotional, behavioral and spiritual - and work together to achieve the healthiest outcome in every part of the individual's life.
John 10:9-10: "I am the gate, whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
