Pastors are often the first people that addicts confide in about their drug and alcohol abuse. Addicts feel safe talking to their pastor about their addiction, and pastors feel confident about recommending Christian addiction treatment programs. Being the first line of defense for people struggling with the disease of addiction is a powerful way to help not only the addicts, but their families as well.
Christian addiction treatment is viewed as a positive step for people addicted to drugs and alcohol. The addiction consumes every waking minute of your life, and your pastor is able to give you advice in a non-judgmental and loving way. Pastors understand that a Christian addiction treatment is the only way to heal the gaping wounds from drug and alcohol abuse and restore your physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Many larger churches in this country, like Calvary Chapel and Saddleback Church, offer programs that work alongside recovering addicts and support them through fellowship and Bible study. Pastors know that while Christian addiction treatment is effective, addicts need continued encouragement through Biblical scripture, prayer and from others experiencing the same difficult journey.
In John 15:5, Christ says "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."
Pastors understand that addiction is a spiritual problem that needs a soution founded in Christ. The basis for the 12 steps, the core of most alcohol treatment programs, is rooted in Biblical scripture. Without a spiritual core, pastors know that recovery will not be possible, and since pastors want only the best for people, they are confident in recommending Christian addiction treatment programs.