Redirecting an Addicts Identity

Most people who walk into addiction have no intention of becoming an addict. The reason many turn to drugs and alcohol, or any addiction, is often to numb or escape the pain of a loss or trauma. Every one of us was designed to be addicted to one thing and one thing only—our Savior Jesus Christ. When we turn to something less than our heavenly Father to meet our needs, we end up dependent on what will only disappoint us.

The drug works momentarily, so we turn to it again and again hoping this time it will work to bring us complete fulfillment. Yet any addict knows, this never happens. We are, for the fifth consecutive year, partnering with the Union Gospel Mission Center for Women and Children in Coeur d’Alene to serve the women starting phase one of their recovery program.

We’re also joining Daybreak Youth Services of Spokane for the third year in a row, serving youth in varying stages of their addiction recovery program. At EMBRACE, our aim is to redirect our participants to Jesus Christ. The one who existed before all things and the one in whom all things are held together (Colossians 1:17). The one who brings to completion every good work (Philippians 1:6) and the one who meets our every need and fulfills our desires (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 37:4). We do this by demonstrating his love in word and deed. We respect boundaries, we express empathy and compassion, we meet the needs we can and pray for those that are outside of our control.

We speak truth, we have fun, and we share everything we have at our disposal. We share our personal horses, home cooked snacks, crafts, our knowledge, our mistakes, our stories and our hearts. In every session we invite our participants to receive, to rest and, if they desire, to reciprocate and share whatever they feel they’d like to share. In turn, they meet the heart and hands of Jesus Christ. We are not limited to serving people in addiction recovery, but it is definitely where the Lord has led us thus far.

Later in the season we’ll connect with Children’s Village of Coeur d’Alene and serve children in foster care. We are also always open to connecting with families and individuals seeking Christ and the restoration of relationships He provides. If you’re interested in getting involved with us and serving, we’d love to meet you.

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