Compulsive Behavior

Compulsive behaviour a seemingly irresistible impulse or urge to act irrationally may follow trauma such as assault, rape, physical or sexual abuse. There may be complications caused by a nutritional and/or chemical imbalance. It could also be spiritual as a result of sin, by yielding to the works of the flesh and demonic influence. Examples of compulsiveness may include addictions such as: gambling, sex offenses, anorexia, bulimia, alcoholism, over-working, excessive talking, lying, and child/spouse abuse.

• What Scripture Says
• How To Overcome
• As You Pray
• Suggested Reading

 

What Scripture Says

"And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown; but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body, and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified" (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

"Among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, just as the others" (Ephesians 2:3).

"But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts" (Romans 13:14).

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" (Romans 12:2).

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law" (Galatians 5:22,23).

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How To Overcome

First assure yourself that you have given your heart and life to Jesus Christ. Establish a firm, well-grounded relationship with Him (Romans 3:23; 6:23).

Consciously submit to the rulership of Jesus. Determine that He will be Lord of your life.

As a born-again Christian, you will need to learn to think and act in ways that are pleasing to God by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2).

Your basic human nature tends to be extremely self-seeking of pleasure (1 John 2:16). The secret to defeating the works of the flesh is not only exercising more willpower or trying harder, but also reckoning your flesh dead and buried with Christ.

As a Christian, you now live in the newness of Jesus' resurrection life and power. Read Romans 6:1-13. The key idea in this passage is "to reckon" (verse 11). This refers to an active, conscious, mental process whereby you affirm the truth of God's Word in your situation.

Your best offense against compulsiveness is to focus your attention on God, the Problem Solver, rather than the problem. He can turn your problem into a blessing. The Bible says to thank God for all things and in all things (Ephesians 5:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:18). God works it for your good if you put your love and trust in Him (Romans 8:28).

Daily, and especially at every temptation to do a compulsive act (whether out of anger, frustration, nervous tension, fleshly desire, or force of habit), follow this simple pattern which will begin to transform and renew your mind: First of all, thank God for revealing the problem, the temptation or the habit. Praise Him for providing a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). He will show you what, where and how.

Next, begin to put your mind on Christ rather than on the problem. You need His peace and freedom in order to deal with it. Offer praise (honour and respect) and thanksgiving to God until peace and joy comes (Isaiah 26:3). Make a sacrifice of continual praise. Persevere, knowing that God will honour your praise and minister to you.

It may be necessary for you to seek the counsel of a friend, pastor or qualified Christian counselor to help you find the root of your compulsive behaviour. Or you may call the Crossroads Ministry Centre nearest you.

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As You Pray

As soon as you recognize a compulsive desire, pray and renounce it. Pray to receive the fruit of the Spirit, especially self-control. Pray in agreement with a prayer partner asking God for His help to set you free.

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Suggested Reading

Read Prison To Praise by Merlin Carothers, Pain And Pretending by Rich Buhler, Released From Shame by Sandra D. Wilson and Search For Significance by Robert McGee

Philippians 4:4-13 Growth in Christ
Galatians 5:19-21 Works of the flesh
Galatians 5:22,23 Fruit of the Spirit

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Crossroads is happy to help.  In fact, that's the whole reason we exist as a ministry.  The daily 100 Huntley Street telecast and the 24-hour-a-day Telephone Ministry line are here for the same reason.  You may want to call us as you are reading this: 1-866-273-4444

God loves you and we love you!  Please give us the privilege of doing our best to help more. For further ministry, you may contact the Crossroads Ministry Centre by writing to:

Crossroads Christian Communications Inc.
Attn: National Ministry Centre
PO Box 5100
Burlington, Ontario     L7R 4M2