The average person of 2021 meets as many people in one year as our grandparents met in their lifetimes. With so many ways to connect with others, no one is alone.
But many are lonely.
That’s where Jesus steps in. He was rightly accused of being a “friend of sinners” (Luke 7:34). And Jesus told his disciples, “I have called you my friends” (John 15:15).
It is true that God wants us to walk in obedience. But his goal for our lives is not compliance, but relationship.
If you want to walk in freedom, it is important to follow the commands of God. But it is more important that you follow the God of commands.
Recovery Step: Jesus is the “friend of sinners.” That means he is on your side. The closer you get to him, the closer you will get to your recovery.
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.
