“The Power to Overcome: Letting God Heal What Alcohol Cannot”

In these challenging times, many people are searching for ways to cope with day-to-day pressures. The uncertainty of jobs, government shutdowns, and the loss of social programs can make life feel overwhelming. When faced with such difficulties, some may turn to vices as a means of escape—and one of the most common is alcohol.

Liquor stores are everywhere, open late, and easily accessible. For those struggling with pain or anxiety, it may seem like a quick solution to ease the mind. But here’s the truth: alcohol is not an answer—it’s a trap that only deepens the problems we face.

Alcoholism is a silent destroyer. It doesn’t just affect the body—it robs us of clarity, self-control, and peace. It impairs the brain, damages the liver, inflames the pancreas, and disrupts hormone balance. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues, while long-term use leads to brain cell damage, dementia, depression, and serious mental health struggles. Even worse, it increases the risk of liver disease and certain cancers, including those of the mouth and throat. Over time, it weakens the immune system, leaving us even more vulnerable.

So when we turn to alcohol to escape life’s challenges, we aren’t solving our problems—we’re adding new ones. The truth is, whatever we turn to for relief becomes our god. If, in our moments of weakness, we find comfort in a bottle, then that bottle begins to rule our lives. We must not give our power away to self-destruction. There is a power in change, but there is also a power in destruction—and the choice between the two determines our future.

Money troubles, broken relationships, or personal pain should never drive us to the bottle. Every dollar spent on alcohol could go toward something meaningful—food, savings, or our household needs. More importantly, the time and energy we give to drinking could be used to heal, to grow, and to rebuild our lives.

For anyone reading this who may be struggling, please know this: there is always a way out. Alcoholism is a disease, and denial only gives it more power. There are support groups, counselors, and loved ones who are ready to help. Admitting that we have a problem isn’t weakness—it’s the first sign of strength.

Temporary relief is not true relief. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, overeating, or unhealthy behavior, numbing ourselves doesn’t solve our problems—it only delays them. We must learn to face life with a clear mind and a steady spirit. Patience, prayer, and persistence are our tools for victory.

You are loved. You are needed. You have purpose. Don’t allow a bottle—or any form of intoxication—to steal your light. Your family, your friends, and your community need you whole and sober.

Stay focused. Stay steadfast. Exercise, eat well, and surround yourself with people who lift you higher. Distance yourself from anyone or anything that tempts you back toward destruction. You are greater than your addiction. You are a child of God—and God’s power is far stronger than any bottle or burden that tries to weigh you down.

National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Hotline 1-800-662-HELP(4357)