Working in You

We’ve all found ourselves in the same condition as Paul described himself in Romans 7:19:" "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing." We, like Paul, must realize our only hope for change is through Christ.

Years ago, a personal habit had grown into an addiction in my life. This “addiction” hindered my desire to share the gospel with people. It had such a stronghold on my life, I knew I had no ability to break it apart from God’s enablement ― and frankly, I didn’t want to give up the pleasure it gave me.

I began to pray daily asking God to work in my heart what His Word said He would do in Philippians 2:13. After two-weeks, God spoke to me through His spirit saying, “You’ll never want this again.” I took Him at His word. The chains of pleasure to the addiction that had enslaved me for more than fifteen years were broken, and to this day I continue to walk in freedom.

Although there have been times Satan has tempted me to find pleasure in my old addiction, I remind myself that those aren’t my desires any longer. God has worked in me to want and to do for His good pleasure instead!

If there is anything you’re finding pleasurable that’s hindering your witness for Him, He’s more than willing to lead you into freedom. Healing may come instantly as it did for me, or He may take you through a journey to recovery. We can trust that He knows the best way to make each of us more like Jesus. Will you trust the One who is at work in you?

Father, may we take you at your word and trust you to work in us both to want and to do of Your good pleasure. Amen.

Go Deeper — Read Exodus 35 and examine how God worked in the hearts of His people to accomplish His will for His good pleasure then, and think about how He still does this today.

If you are struggling with an addiction and need prayer, you can connect confidentially through the form below. You'll get to pray and journey with a mentor.