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An Apostolic Witness of the Savior’s Central Role in Recovery from Addiction

I am so grateful for Elder Robert D. Hales’ address in General Conference of April 2009 and for his powerful testimony concerning the reality of addiction and how it contributes to the scourge of debt as we try to buy enough and own enough to feel secure and have self-worth.

In seeking to overcome debt and addictive behaviors, we should remember that addiction is the craving of the natural man, and it can never be satisfied. It is an insatiable appetite. When we are addicted, we seek those worldly possessions or physical pleasures that seem to entice us. But as children of God, our deepest hunger and what we should be seeking is what the Lord alone can provide—His love, His sense of worth, His security, His confidence, His hope in the future, and assurance of His love, which brings us eternal joy.

… The hunger of addiction can only be replaced by our love for Him. He stands ready to help each one of us. “Fear not,” He said, “for you are mine, and I have overcome the world” (D&C 50:41).

For years, as a very active Church member, trying desperately to earn the Lord’s help, I had lost touch with the truth that He was and still is willing to come to one as poor in spirit and faint-hearted as I.  Yet, according to Elder Holland, the verb, “to succor” means ” to run to ” someone (Trusting Jesus, Deseret Book, 2003, p. 43).

Jesus, my dearest Friend, my Savior, will run to me!  How long will it take me to learn this and never forget it?  Probably until the end of my life, since I am so prone to infirmities in mind and body, just like King Benjamin confessed to be (see Mosiah 2:11). How grateful I am that King Benjamin was willing to accept and even admit his own imperfection! Following his example, I will lean upon my Savior’s unwavering perfection and trust that as I continue to come unto Him, I will be perfected in Him (see Moroni 10: 32). As an addict, you see, He, Jesus Christ, is my only hope. His goodness and merits, and His patience with me are my only hope.

Tomorrow, read Part 5: I Will Not Leave You Comfortless

~Colleen H.

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