The first ever report on alcohol, drugs, and health by the surgeon general has been released and some of the facts and key findings are helpful. Read the report here.
The report estimates that 1 in 7 Americans will face addiction issues.
I would say that number is higher: 7 in 7 Americans face idolatrous desires for things that can cause self-destruction (a.k.a. addiction issues). Because of our sinful nature and bent toward living for self (Gen. 6:5), we are sinful creatures plagued with desires to live for oneself rather than for God and others (Matt. 22:37-40). That is our reality. Now, not everyone will become enslaved to substances but the enslaving desire for all pleasures is ingrained in our sinful nature.
As I have time to read and digest the Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health, I will give you my analysis of what this tells us and how the church can be the solution to the problem of addiction. Look for more posts in the weeks ahead!
-Mark (thankful that the Surgeon General is Facing Addiction in America and even more thankful that Jesus Christ and His body is the answer for all addictions)