We live in Bradenton, Florida, six miles from the beach. Green water. White sand. Seagulls overhead.
In a word – paradise.
So I completely understand why people are flooding into Florida. What I don’t understand is why people move here, within a 15-drive of the ocean, but then never go to the beach. That would be like going to the greatest burger joint in the world, then ordering tator tots. Or going to a movie theater for a soft drink, but not staying for the movie.
Jesus said, “I have come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).
In beach terms, God wants you to live in paradise, and he wants you to enjoy paradise.
Recovery Step: Epicurus said, “Not what we have, but what we enjoy constitutes our abundance.” God wants you to enjoy the abundant blessings of recovery. Now.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
