Crafting Temptation And Repentance Plans For Addicts.pdf

## Crafting Temptation and Repentance Plans for Addicts: A Biblical Approach by Dr. Keith Palmer

This summary outlines a three-pronged counseling strategy for addressing addiction, emphasizing the importance of planning for both temptation and subsequent repentance.

Key Elements:

Offensive (Ps. 119:9-10): Proactively resisting sin through knowledge of Scripture and intentional choices aligned with God's will.
Defense (1 Cor. 10:13): Building spiritual defenses to avoid temptation by understanding weaknesses and relying on God's strength.
Special Teams/Repentance (Pss. 32, 51): Actively pursuing forgiveness and restoration after sin through confession, accountability, and restitution.

Temptation:

The article identifies various biblical examples of temptation (Genesis 39, Romans 13:14, 1 Corinthians 10:13, James 1:13-16, Hebrews 4:14-16) highlighting the universal struggle against sin.

Crafting a Robust Temptation Plan:

Simplicity and Momentum Break: Plans should be simple, easy to remember, and designed to interrupt the momentum of temptation.
Examples:
Example 1 (Kids): Stop, Get away, Pray, Obey
Example 2: Flee to a safe place, Pray for help, Call an accountability partner, Review counseling notes.
Customization: Plans need to be tailored to individual needs, addressing specific triggers and vulnerabilities.

Repentance:

* Psalm 32 & 51: These psalms are used as examples of genuine repentance, emphasizing confession, forgiveness, and transformation.

Crafting a Robust Repentance Plan:

1. Confess to God: Acknowledge sin openly and honestly (Psalm 32:5, 1 John 1:9).
2. Reparation: Make amends to those harmed by the sin (Luke 17:3-4).
3. Accountability: Confide in a fellow believer for support and prayer (James 5:16).
4. Avoidance: Implement radical changes to prevent future temptation (Matthew 5:29-30).
5. Transformation: Replace selfish desires with gospel-centered resolutions (Ephesians 4:22-24).
6. Heart Transformation: Ask God to change your heart, replacing self-serving motives with God-honoring ones (Psalm 139:23-24).