This is the holiday season and that means that a lot of people become depressed and struggle. People throughout time have always sought to fill the holes in their lives with temporary solutions which often turn into addictions, codependency, and can lead to anger issues. These solutions can often become the crutches they lean on instead of dealing with the challenges or feelings have face on. These struggles frequently stem from issues with family, work, relationships, and unresolved traumas. But there’s hope and healing to be found in Jesus, who can fill these voids before they lead to destructive dependencies.

When we experience turmoil in our lives, we often try to fill the emptiness with fleeting solutions. However, Jesus is the answer to our deepest longings. In John 4:14 (NIV), Jesus tells us, “But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Addiction is a formidable adversary, but with Christ, it can be defeated. Turning to substances or behaviors may temporarily mask the pain, but true healing is found in Him. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) reminds us, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Codependency often arises from unmet emotional needs. As we lean on others for our self-worth, Christ’s love provides a foundation that cannot be shaken. 1 John 4:19 (NIV) tells us, “We love because he first loved us.” Understanding and embracing God’s love can free us from codependent patterns.

Unresolved anger can lead to a host of issues, but Christ offers us His peace. James 1:20 (NIV) advises, “Human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” His peace, on the other hand, can bring reconciliation and healing.

Overcoming addictions is often challenging and may require the help of medical professionals. We should not hesitate to seek their expertise. However, Christ’s love and support can be a powerful complement to the recovery process. There is a 12 step program addicts can go through to help them change their addiction behavior and it includes Faith as one of the 12 steps.

As Christians, it’s our responsibility to share the message of hope with those who are hurting. We need to be the bearers of Christ’s love and grace, reaching out to those struggling before they turn to destructive dependencies. Get to know your neighbors, your superficial friends, distant relatives, other church members, and acquaintances that are in your sphere. The more you invest in getting to know someone the more you will know what their life struggles are, once you KNOW then you can share the hope with them that comes with knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior. You can also recommend that take the necessary steps to also get the counseling with your pastors and/or clinical help they may need. These steps may just be what is needed to prevent them from becoming an addict in order to deal with the pain they feel.

As Christians, we don’t have to navigate our struggles alone; the Holy Spirit is our divine helper in times of weakness. As stated in Romans 8:26 (NIV), “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” When our own strength wanes, the Holy Spirit steps in, advocating for us and providing the guidance and strength we need to overcome our battles.

While our faith in Christ is foundational to our healing, the role of community should not be underestimated. Galatians 6:2 (NIV) underscores this point: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Being part of a church or a support group is an essential aspect of the healing journey. It’s where we find encouragement, understanding, and the tangible love of Christ expressed through others.

The church, as the body of Christ, is a place where we can experience His grace through the kindness and empathy of fellow believers. Similarly, support groups offer a safe haven for those struggling, a place where shared experiences can provide solace and strength. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) reinforces the idea that Christ’s power is made perfect in our weakness: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’”

In the original Greek, the word “astheneia,” used in these verses, can also mean sickness or frailty. This word resonates with the idea that we all experience moments of fragility, and it’s during these times that Christ’s power and the support of our Christian community can shine through.

In our quest to overcome addiction, codependency, and anger, we must recognize the vital roles played by the Holy Spirit and our Christian community. The Holy Spirit intercedes in our weakness, providing guidance and strength, while our fellow believers and support groups offer comfort, understanding, and a tangible expression of Christ’s love. Together, with the power of Christ, the Holy Spirit, and a loving community, we can find healing and wholeness. As we bear one another’s burdens, we fulfill the law of Christ and become beacons of His grace and love in a world in need of healing and hope.

The holes we feel in our lives can lead to addictions, codependency, and anger. But Jesus is the answer to our deepest longings. His love, support, and grace can help us overcome these challenges. While the journey may be difficult and sometimes require professional help, there is always hope in Christ. As we extend His love to others, we become beacons of hope and healing in a world searching for wholeness.