Faith Matters
One of the differentiators for the Teen Challenge recovery program is our foundation in Christ. We believe that for men and women to experience true freedom from substance addiction and lasting recovery, change needs to start from within.
Many addictions stem from deep-rooted hurts, trauma, or abuse. When clients discover who God is and put their trust in Him, they can embrace the unconditional love of Jesus. That is where true and lasting change begins! As one client put it “Jesus performed open heart surgery on me!”.
“In a journey towards recovery, faith is not just a component; it is the cornerstone.”
Matthew Barbour, Director of Centre Operations, Teen Challenge Canada
Addiction leaves people feeling trapped, ashamed, and powerless. When someone truly grasps the restorative power of God’s forgiveness and grace, it means they can have hope when things seem hopeless.
Many times, those struggling with addiction feel they have become their addiction. Their previous identity is lost in the destructive behaviour and it’s difficult to push past that to be “seen” again. Freedom in Christ means we are new creations, leaving the past behind.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Living a new life in Christ is a fresh start and an opportunity to have an identity beyond the addiction. We were fearfully and wonderfully made and can live in confidence knowing God has a plan for our lives.
A DEEPER “WHY”
To be motivated to change, our clients need to determine their “why”.
- Why do they need to change?
- Why do they need help?
If their “why” is superficial – avoiding consequences or pleasing others – lasting recovery may be difficult.
But, if their “why” focuses on living the life God intended for them because they were created in His image, they will grasp a crucial concept. They will have a sense of purpose.
Many programs recognize the principle of a “higher power” and how it can be a catalyst for change. However, we know that it is faith in Christ that provides the lasting change in addiction recovery.
A FAITH COMMUNITY.
Becoming part of a faith-based community typically means finding encouragement and accountability. Building healthy relationships helps to establish connection and avoid isolation – important factors to avoid relapse. These friendships can help the individual dig deeper in their faith walk and help inspire growth.
The journey of recovery takes intentionality and hard work to deal with emotional wounds. There will be times that feel overwhelming, and the individual might be tempted to give in. But take heart! Philippians 4:13 tells us
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
We do not need to lean on our own strength, but can rely on God’s power, promises, and grace.
FREEDOM FROM SHAME
The crux of the Christian faith is God’s forgiveness of our sins. We are ALL sinners and require Jesus’ sacrifice to atone for our sins.
…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…
Romans 3:23
Confessing our sin and asking for God’s forgiveness means our sins are blotted out. Men and women that have struggled with addiction no longer need to wallow in shame and embarrassment. Their identity in Christ gives them lasting freedom and restoration.
Teen Challenge Canada’s program is more than an addiction recovery pathway; it is a journey of faith, leading to life-altering transformation.
Teen Challenge Canada is open to anyone, regardless of their personal faith and/or financial situation. Clients do not need to be a Christian to enroll but they do need to be open to our faith-based program. There is a radical transformation when men and women acknowledge God’s place in their lives and accept His offer of a clean slate. As hope, grace, and forgiveness take root, they are launched on a lifelong journey of transformation.
“It is through faith that we find the strength to heal, and in Christ’s love, we discover the power to change.”
Matthew Barbour, Director of Centre Operations, Teen Challenge Canada
