Living Free Every Day®

Relationship Addictions

Today's Scripture

Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. (Hebrews 12:2 AMP)

Thoughts for Today:

When we think of addiction, our minds usually turn to thoughts of substance abuse. However, relationship addictions are just as real; and can be devastating. There are several types of such addictions. Here are a few:

Emotionally dependent relationship: a relationship in which you are so attached to another person that you are controlled by that person's moods to the point of being overwhelmed.

Physically dependent relationship:  a relationship in which you are physically dependent on another person, especially in the area of physical attraction. You become obsessed with spending time with him or her.

Spiritually dependent relationship: a relationship in which you have no spiritual identity or relationship with God apart from your relationship with another person. You depend on this other person to define your walk with God.

Codependent relationship: a relationship in which another person's misbehavior is affecting your sense of well-being, and you become obsessed with controlling that person's behavior.

This week we will look at codependent relationships; what they are, how they hurt everyone involved, and steps you can take to begin the process of balancing your life.

Consider this …

Codependent relationships are major distractions. Today's scripture reminds us we are to look away from all distractions and focus on Jesus. May the thoughts in this week's devotions encourage you to identify distractions in your life and turn your focus fully on Jesus.

Prayer

Father, help me see anything in my life that is distracting me from you. Forgive me and help me focus more fully on Jesus. In Jesus' name . . .

These thoughts were drawn from …

Close—But Not Too Close by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. A complement to the Concerned Persons small group study, this booklet is written primarily for those who want to help someone close to them who is enslaved by the stronghold of a life-controlling issue. It is also designed to help someone who is suffering the consequences of a loved one's problem.

We hope these devotions are a blessing to you and to others in your life. We are happy to provide them for you at no cost, but thought you might want to consider a donation to help our ministry with the expense involved. You can safely donate through our website. Thank you!

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