Ephesians 3:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [a]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
When someone has ripped us to shreds, we should consider quoting this verse twice a day until we can forgive them. We all believe satan uses people in the movies… but we forget that he uses people who are right in front of us as well.
I also forget that when addiction was “driving” me, I was very dark and abusive.
Second, God knows “how much” we can forgive someone right now. If you have someone who hurt you for years, one quick phone call to just touch base is a start. It is obeying the command to forgive. Consider praying:
“Father, take away my spirit of drinking/drugs and help me to forgive others that way You forgave me.”
Third, when we forgive, we increase the power of the Holy Spirit in us. We need the Holy Spirits power in us to help us quit. We need His power to help us help others.
Forgiving others may be a top 3 way to increase in the Spirit. The #1 way is getting scripture “in us.” #2 Spending time in prayer. #3 A tie between forgiving, and loving others.
Finally, do you want to be happy? Three of the best ways to increase happiness are to learn (and pray) about rapid forgiveness. #2 Learn (and pray) about running from, and turning from intoxication. #3 Every day, consider praying, “Father, what do You want me to work on today.” Granted He is not going to talk to you any more than He talks to me. But… if we have repented of our sin, it is amazing how often a thought pops into our head when we give God a chance to be involved in our lives.
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