Find the Freedom in Recovery
It is often incorrectly assumed that one has to be a Christian to go through a Christian Rehab Program. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. If anything, those who don’t know Jesus or who have a weak relationship with Him are encouraged to seek treatment through these types of programs, as it shows them that true freedom can be offered even past ‘recovery.’ Because these programs are interlaced with spiritual teachings, it encourages those who are going through treatment to rely on someone else, rather than leaning solely on themselves.
Psalm 18:2 says:
“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”
This is such a beautiful verse and has been used regularly to teach both believers and non-believers to rely on God. How wonderful is it to know that you have such a great and powerful God protecting you and standing up for you against those who would wish you harm—even if that person is yourself.
Come One, Come All
Jimmy Monaghan who has a Clinical MA in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education standing with this ideal as well. Having gone through treatment programs and finally finding a firm foundation in God has given him the confidence to profess God’s healing powers in a treatment center atmosphere.
It’s really up to the person who is coming for treatment whether they would mind going through a Christian program. 1 John 2:2, “and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.” Jesus died for all mankind, not just those who follow his teachings. Knowing this, Christian Recovery is about accepting all people, from all walks of life, that “includes every other religion, every orientation, every lifestyle.”
Jesus is the Foundation
Though people from all faiths are welcomed, Jesus will be the primary higher power that is talked about and called on for healing in this type of substance abuse treatment; people of different faiths are welcomed to pray to whomever they wish. The program itself is based on the “loving relationship with Jesus Christ.” This type of program was created to show people that true freedom can be obtained with the power of Jesus, and He is the key reaching recovery.
Monaghan is a firm believer that nonbelievers were included in Jesus’s death so that everyone had a chance to be included in His life. He encourages everyone to seek treatment at a Christian Recovery program so they are afforded the opportunity to hear about Jesus and experience his abounding love.
His hope is that those who come to these programs get to experience the Holy Spirit and all it has to offer. Those who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior get the experience the rush and security of the Holy Spirit and know that it “works in, though, and for them.” Those are the people who get to experience “the redemptive power Christ has.”
