On Monday we shared the story of Texas Rangers' All-Star Josh Hamilton, whose career was initially derailed by drug and alcohol addiction. After several stints in rehab, he was still unable to escape those vices under his own power. Looking back, he admits he didn’t realize how he was hurting those closest to him as his life revolved around satisfying his craving for more drugs and alcohol. Once he hit bottom at his grandmother’s home in 2005, his heart was opened to God’s love and how much he needed Him to overcome his addictions and heal the brokenness in his life.
 
Addictions can take on different forms for each of us. Drugs, alcohol, pornography, money, power...the list is long. Some addictions aren't as obvious though. We can become addicted to our sport and the pursuit of athletic success. Our identity and motivation can become entangled in our wins and losses. Our performance, status on a team and athletic accolades become the driving factor in our lives.

In Matthew 22:37, Jesus is asked which command is the greatest. He replies, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind."

While we can easily become addicted to many things, even our own sport, ultimately our only desire should be that of knowing our Savior and being obedient to Him. Once we accept His sacrificial gift of grace and forgiveness in our lives, He can help set us free from anything that binds us.
 
Click below to watch FCA’s recent video with Hamilton and listen as he explains what it was like being in the middle of his addiction and how he hopes to help others by sharing about his past. Then take a few minutes to answer the questions and read the related Scripture.

While you may or may not struggle with the same "addictions" - we are all capable of being drawn away from our Savior. May we identify those areas and discover freedom and restoration through the continual love of Jesus.