Addiction—whether it be alcohol addiction or addiction to drugs, porn, food, the internet—is something that countless Christians struggle with, yet it isn’t something that gets talked about in church. It’s ugly, it’s messy, and we just aren’t comfortable with it. That’s why I was thrilled to have the opportunity to chat with Dana Bowman, author of Bottled and more recently, How to Be Perfect Like Me, about her struggles with an addiction to alcohol and the way that Jesus ultimately helped her, and continues to help her, have victory over it. Dana shares her story of recovery with authenticity, humor, and joy, giving a fresh perspective on the seemingly taboo subject of faithful Christians struggling with addictions.

Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or simply want to better understand those who do, please join Dana and I as we have a much-needed discussion about overcoming addiction and finding victory in Christ.

Highlights from Today’s Episode:

  • What a Christian’s struggle with and recovery from alcohol can look like (and it’s not what we might imagine)
  • Practical advice on recovering from addiction and keeping it at bay
  • Why repenting and seeking Jesus is essential to recovery
  • Talking about addiction with your kids
  • A perspective on whether it is permissible—or wise—for Christians to drink alcohol 

Quotes:

Resources From Today’s Show 

  • Read Dana’s newest book How to Be Perfect Like Me, a humorous memoir about her journey of recovery from alcohol addiction. Check out her book Bottled as well!

 ==> General Links 

Have you taken the staying awake assessment? Find it here.

Did you catch last week’s episode, She’s Still Free? Listen here.

Grab my latest book, She’s Still There!

Take a look at Kingdom Woman by Chrystal Evans Hurst and Tony Evans

Let’s Talk!

After you’ve listened to the podcast, I’d love to continue the conversation. Be sure and leave a comment!

  1. Is there anything in your life—alcohol, food, the internet, movies—that, if you are honest, you find yourself needing and turning to more that you should? Are there certain “triggers,” like stress or loneliness, that make you desperately want that thing?
  2. Often it is feelings of discouragement and emptiness that lead people to addiction. Are you doing simple things that feed your soul and make your heart sing (coloring, reading books, getting outside, knitting) on a regular basis? Above all, are you seeking comfort and joy in Christ—letting him fill the holes your heart—daily?
  3. In the podcast Dana explains, “I drank alone. It wasn’t something that looked out of control on the outside at all…you can still be a Christian and drink and be an alcoholic.” Do you have an inaccurate, harmful image of what addiction looks like, particularly in Christ-followers? Are you willing to support and listen to those struggling without judging them?

Connect with me…

How to Listen to The Podcast

If you’re new to podcasts, think of them like little radio shows that you can listen to at your convenience. They are perfect to listen to and learn from as you workout, fold laundry, wash dishes or conquer the world.

1. Listen right here on the blog. Click the little play button at the beginning of this post.

2. Listen on iTunes or Stitcher or Google Play! – Be sure and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Also, if you would be so kind as to leave a rating on iTunes and/or write a 2-3 sentence review there or on Stitcher?  Your commentary or rating helps make the podcast more “findable” by others who might not know it exists!

3. Share today’s show –   Email the link to a friend or share on social media. Just click on the sharing buttons at the bottom of this post!

You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!