"Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy." (Micah 7:18 NIV)
Yesterday evening I had the blessing of leading a new 12-step group at Christian Life Church in Kharkov. Each time I start a new group, I have the privilege of sharing a little of my testimony, including how the Father has set me free from an addiction to alcohol. And each time I share, I am amazed anew at His great mercy, grace, and patience!
I have often commented that I never knew the extent of that freedom until I landed in a country where beer is a breakfast drink, and shots of vodka can be purchased at kiosks that line the streets in many areas; where there are more aisles stocked with alcoholic beverages in supermarkets than with soft drinks and juice! Praise God for His mercy that gave me not only a new heart, but a new life as well!
I cannot imagine the spiritual, physical, and emotional battles that ensue in a man or woman struggling to find freedom from addiction in a culture where alcohol is so much a part of every celebration and drunkenness is viewed as simply traditional! My heart aches as I see the pain etched on the faces of family members seeking to help a loved one held captive by drugs or alcohol. And yet, we know the One - the Only One - who can truly set them free (John 8:36 - So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.)
It is exciting to see pastors asking for this ministry, and encouraging their church members to be a part! My hope and prayer is that the Lord would raise up Ukrainian believers with a passion and vision for reaching out with the love of Christ to those who are hurting! I'm so thankful that I get to take what the enemy intended for destruction in my life and share the victory over that enemy through Christ! I can hardly wait to see what my Father is going to do next!
