The First Step Is Admitting You Have A Problem

The First Step Is Admitting You Have A Problem

He will die for lack of self-control; he will be lost because of his great foolishness. Proverbs 5:23

Bryan believed he should at least be able to have a little taste of his birthday cake, but one little taste led to a much larger portion of the forbidden, fruit-filled cake.

At three hundred pounds and growing, Bryan was unable to control his appetite. Having cake in the house only fueled his obsession. Knowing the cake was available, he continued to go back for more until he had eaten the whole thing and lay on the floor, unconscious.

His mother found him and immediately tested his blood sugar. It was so high that it didn’t register a number—it just read “high.” By the time he got to the hospital, he had a reading of 900—a potentially life-threatening blood sugar level.

“I didn’t even buy him a birthday cake,” she said, as she waited anxiously in the emergency room. “He went out and bought his own and kept it hidden from us.”

“I know he has trouble controlling his appetite, but this could have killed him,” I said as gently as I could.

“I know. I know. We’re going to have a heart-to-heart with him when he gets out of the ICU.”

The next morning, I overheard her pleading for her son’s life.

“Bryan, you have to get this under control! You could have died, and I can’t take that. Your behavior is going to kill both of us. Please stop.”

“I’m sorry, Mom. I know. I’ll get help with this food addiction. I promise.”

I recommended that he meet with a psychologist before being discharged. When I went in to check on him, I could tell he was taking the situation seriously.

“I don’t want to be a food addict for the rest of my life. Will you pray for me? Will you pray that I overcome this compulsion?” he asked.

I assured him that I would continue to pray for him, but I encouraged him also to look to the Lord each day for strength. When we are weak, our God is strong.

TODAY’S RX

There are many forms of addiction. If your life is out of control, acknowledge your problem to someone else; then seek help from God and a professional who can advise you on how best to overcome it.

God, I lack control in a number of areas, and I need you to help me. Please lead me away from unhealthy habits, and direct me to your Word, where I know I will receive counsel.