In many twelve-step groups...
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In many twelve-step groups, they make reference to a "hole in the soul." A person can be
very talented, have a nice family, car, and job, and still be empty. Paul Tillich says that
this leads to meaninglessness, despair, and possible self-destructive actions (Courage
to Be [New Haven: Yale University Press, 1962], pp 54-57). Only the Jesus
who died on the cross and rose from the grave for the sins of humanity can fill this
emptiness (John 3:16-17). All other false gods of the age disappoint us.
Drew occasionally went to a church back home, but never believed anything he heard in church. He had an addiction to both alcohol and pain drugs. Finally, after losing one job after another, he found himself homeless and sleeping out on the streets. Alcohol, drugs, and parties not only let him down, but he felt empty. He found himself at a twelve-step group meeting. He was told that he must admit to being powerless over the addicted substance and give his life over to a higher power. Until this is done, he will always be trying to fill the void in his life with addictive substances. John's prescription for Drew would to be to take the words of Jesus seriously.
Drew occasionally went to a church back home, but never believed anything he heard in church. He had an addiction to both alcohol and pain drugs. Finally, after losing one job after another, he found himself homeless and sleeping out on the streets. Alcohol, drugs, and parties not only let him down, but he felt empty. He found himself at a twelve-step group meeting. He was told that he must admit to being powerless over the addicted substance and give his life over to a higher power. Until this is done, he will always be trying to fill the void in his life with addictive substances. John's prescription for Drew would to be to take the words of Jesus seriously.
