Thursday, 20^th June 2024

Bible Reading: Obadiah 1:17

Memory Verse: And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing. Isaiah 10:27 (KJV)

Breaking addiction to gambling involves a multifaceted approach that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and practical dimensions to the struggle. Here are some key aspects to consider:

A. Spiritual Support

I. Prayer: Pray for the person’s healing, strength, and wisdom. Pray for their release from the grip of addiction and their ability to find fulfilment in God. Encourage them to pray regularly and seek God’s guidance in their journey.

II. Scripture: Share relevant verses that address themes like contentment, diligence, trust in God, and avoiding greed and idolatry (Colossians 3:5, Proverbs 22:16, Matthew 6:24). Discuss how these verses apply to their situation.

III. Community: Encourage them to connect with a supportive Christian community, either through a church group, support group specifically for gambling addiction, or even a mentor. Sharing their burden and receiving encouragement from fellow believers can be a powerful source of strength.

B. Emotional Support

I. Empathy and Understanding: Avoid judgment or criticism, recognizing the complex emotional factors that can contribute to gambling. Listen patiently and offer non-judgmental support.

II. Addressing Underlying Issues: Explore any underlying issues that might be driving them into gambling, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed.

III. Healthy Alternatives: Help them find healthy and fulfilling activities to replace their gambling habit. This could involve hobbies, spending time with loved ones, volunteering, or engaging in spiritual practices.

C. Practical Support

I. Financial Assistance: If finances are a concern, consider offering practical help, such as budgeting assistance or connecting them with financial support resources.

II. Accountability and Boundaries: Help them set boundaries and establish accountability measures, such as blocking gambling websites, limiting access to money, or informing trusted individuals about their struggle.

III. Professional Help: Encourage them to seek professional help from therapists or counsellors specializing in gambling addiction.

Quote:Recovery is a journey, not a destination. There will be setbacks and challenges, so be patient and supportive throughout the process.

Prophetic Decree: Receive grace to pull out of gambling, in Jesus name. 

Prayer Focus

1. Thank you Father for your hand of love and grace, in Jesus name.

2. I break every evil cord tying me down to the chain of addiction, in Jesus name.

3. Holy Spirit, please change my appetite towards gambling, in Jesus name.

4. Any foundational evil cord binding me to self-destructive habits, be broken, in Jesus name.

5. Altar of my parents’ house speaking evil, magnetising friends, habits and places of destruction towards me, catch fire, in Jesus name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ecclesiastes 7-12