"FOR THOUGH THE RIGHTEOUS FALL SEVEN TIMES, THEY RISE AGAIN..." Proverbs 24:16 (NIV)
I never dreamed the day would come that I would find myself struggling to find the right words. Yet, here I am determined to share a little of what God has been teaching me. For a long time I believed leaders had to appear perfect. (We all know they make mistakes...just not big ones). For far too long I thought admitting my struggles would only hurt, not help. I told myself nobody would understand, nobody would care and most of all nobody would still support you as a leader. These were all lies I believed. Lies that come from the father of lies, the devil (John 8:44).
Then, I met the body of Christ. Not just met, but was embraced by the body of Christ. Sure, I have grown up in church all of my life. I have seen God work in amazing ways through the church...yet, I had never felt that I could truly be authentic and transparent until Sunday. Sunday, I stood before my brothers and sisters in Christ and admitted I struggle with alcoholism. Never have I felt so broken and yet so loved.
This blog is my simple attempt to share this journey of recovery with those that choose to bear this burden with me. My wife, Megan, is also blogging to give a spouse's perspective. Her blog is unashameddependance
Our prayer is that God will use our journey to bring Him glory. May God grant you the courage to be authentic. Always remember, the righteous are not righteous because they never fall...but because they "RISE AGAIN."
Chad, you and Megan are in my prayers. Please let me know if I can help in ANY way. Love you both.
ReplyDeleteThanks...appreciate it.
DeleteChad, I offer the words of Chris Tomlin to you:
ReplyDeleteThere's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
May it be the anthem of your journey. I will walk with you every step. In Christ's love.
Very good song...powerful. Thanks Jerry.
DeleteWe love you and we were sad that we couldn't be there on Sunday to be a part of such a critical day in your recovery. Please know that we are here for you and your family. Praying continually...
ReplyDeleteChad
ReplyDeleteI only went to your church once but after reading this I plan to come back!!When I came to your church I felt as though I wasn't holy enough to be there (a lie from the devil) ! I really wanted to be baptized but I listened to the lies and didn't return because I thought if anyone really knew the addictions I had they would shun me. As a leader it takes major courage to admit your not perfect ,Your so brave for sharing your struggle ! We all fall short of the glory of God but thankful Jesus took that sin for us . Your Not alone we all struggle with different demons but God is more powerful then all of them ! I know the Lord will use you to inspire others like myself to come home to the body of Christ. I myself struggle with addiction and understand the feeling of being alone with no one to turn to! I'm so glad I read this and I will see you Sunday !
What an amazing example you are setting for so many people! Praying for you constantly and it's only going to get better from here. Seeing how God is using you is absolutely awesome!
ReplyDeleteI am so proud of you for your witness. I plan to follow your journey so I can pray along with you. I pray for healing, but mostly that you will allow God to work through this journey in your life. What an example you are setting to people of all ages. To see that no one is perfect but that everyone can come to Jesus just as they are and find peace. I have always thought so much of you and Megan and that has only been strengthened through the amazing example you are setting!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carissa. His peace is truly amazing. Thanks for the kind words.
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ReplyDeleteChad you are a good man and brave for admitting your struggles....you and Megan are in my prayers.
ReplyDelete