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The Cycle of
Addiction
12-Step |
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The Cycle of Addiction
Paul’s Answer to the Cycle
in Colossians 3 |
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Stage 1: Pain.
The heart enters into pain. This pain starts the
heart’s search for a pain killer and a pleasure giver. |
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Stage 1: Position.
Rather than being isolated in pain, guilt and shame,
Paul’s solution is for us to remember our position as a
dearly loved child of God.
(Since you have been raised with Christ.... 3:1)
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Stage 2: Dissociation.
The person steps away from relationships with others
and God, and steps into the fog of moods and desires. |
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Stage 2: Partnering.
In order to counter dissociation, Paul urges the person
to associate with God through the new identity. (Set
your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
3:2)
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Stage 3: Fantasy.
The individual enters a false world that sustains
sensation. Any conflicts seen in the outside world are
rationalized away. |
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Stage 3: Mood Killing.
Paul encourages us to go on a mood-killing expedition
by sorting out life’s challenges with God.
(Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your
earthly nature. 3:3)
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Stage 4: The Initial Act.
A concrete act usually begins the negative,
destructive behavior pattern and results in a lifestyle
that is lived out robotically. |
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Stage 4: Relational Pain Management.
Paul indicates that the solution is found in
relating to others (Take off like clothing anger...3:8)
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Stage 5: Acting Out.
When pain arrives again, the cycle resumes. |
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Stage 5: Compassion.
Ultimately, Paul tells believers to replace the old
clothing of resentment with compassion.
(Therefore, as God’s chosen people, clothe yourselves
with compassion. 3:12)
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