The road of Christian alcohol recovery is not paved with self-help slogans or vague promises of "steps" that might lead to freedom. If we are honest with ourselves, the bottle is not our only problem — it is simply the fruit of a deeper root: the sinful nature that enslaves every man and woman apart from Christ.
The Law speaks plainly: "Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). Yet how many times have you resolved to quit, only to return again to the same empty cup? The Law reveals the depth of our bondage.
Many turn to AA or search out AA Christian recovery books for answers. Yet as well-meaning as these resources may be, they often point inward — to man's effort — rather than upward, to Christ. The steps can never regenerate the heart. Only the Spirit of God, working through His Word, can.
The Law says: "You must be sober. You must obey." The Gospel says: "You cannot, but Christ has fulfilled it for you. He bore your sin and gives you His Spirit." Sobriety is not first about you choosing God, but about God choosing to raise the dead. This is why Reformed preaching has always begun with man's inability and Christ's sufficiency.
"If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
— John 8:36If you've relapsed, if you're tired of empty promises, if you've tried the steps and still wake up enslaved, hear this: you are not beyond hope. The Law has condemned your sin, yes, but Christ has borne the condemnation in your place. He is not a step on your journey. He is the narrow way, the only way. Friend, you cannot recover yourself. But in Christ, you can be raised from death to life.
"Addiction is the devil’s leash. He wants you dead. Christ is stronger."