Counsel #19 — Hidden Habit

Picture: Counsel #19 — Hidden HabitCR 195.1

What do you do when the person you love most keeps disappearing behind a habit they can’t, or won’t let go of? Addiction doesn’t show up with a warning label. It creeps in slowly, often disguised as stress relief, emotional escape, or a “one more time” excuse.CR 195.2

Whether it’s alcohol, pornography, gambling, drugs, or even constant scrolling on social media and secrecy, addiction never stays isolated. The devil has designed all addictions to seep into your emotional safety, financial stability, communication, and spiritual connection. The addicted spouse may not intend to hurt the relationship, but when anything becomes more important than the marriage, love will soon erode. The first step to conquering any unhealthy habit is honesty. Addiction thrives in secrecy, as the devil intended, but healing can begin when brought into the light. If you’re the one struggling, know you are not beyond help, and you don’t have to fix it alone. God offers grace and power through His Spirit, but also through counselors, recovery communities, and spiritual mentors. If your spouse is struggling, anchor your hope in God and pray that He will change their desires to align with His.^{[202] https://www.adventistpublishing.org/mission-365/glow-tracts/breaking-addictions/} CR 195.3

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalms 34:18 NIVCR 195.4

“Satan is determined to have the human race as his subjects.” Ellen White in Temperance , p. 274CR 195.5

Reflect: How is addiction impacting your marriage?CR 195.6