Life can seem like one long struggle when faced with addiction. Every day is a new test of endurance.

I am addicted to sugar.

Did you scoff? I am fortunate that my particular addiction is socially acceptable, unlike many addictions. We call it a “sweet tooth.” Sounds fun. Most people wouldn’t even call it a “real” addiction. That’s fine. To me it is real, and it’s a daily challenge.

American companies push sugar. They cram it into every possible food to boost sales and profits. And it works because sugar tastes good. And it is addictive.

I’m not overweight, but I could easily be if I were to stop fighting. The battle against my cravings for sugar is constant. I don’t always win, but I wake up every day with renewed determination to eat healthily.

The struggle against sin is like my battle with sugar cravings in many ways. I am fighting against powerful external forces as well as my own internal desires.

“Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭CSB‬‬

Fortunately, in my battle against sin, I have an advocate more powerful than the devil, society, and my cravings combined. Jesus has already fought my battle for me and won. All I need to do is trust Him and keep getting up every morning to try to love well, gratefully accepting His forgiveness when I fail.

Dear God,

Thank you so much for giving me the strength to fight temptations in my life. Thank you even more for your promise of forgiveness when I fail, when I give in to the urge to hate instead of love, to take instead of give, to insult instead of encourage. Help me to try again today and endure in my struggle until you come again.