December 26th marks 17 years of sobriety for me—a day I will never forget. It all started on December 26, 2007, when I woke up feeling the weight of regret after drinking on Christmas Day. I felt convicted, ashamed, and broken. I remember thinking, “I’ve crossed a line I can’t live with.”
That morning, I found myself pleading with God, overwhelmed and desperate. “I can’t do this anymore. Please take this desire for drugs and alcohol away from me!” I had tried the one-day-at-a-time approach before, but I knew I couldn’t sustain it with my personality. I was at the end of myself, and I felt like I was destroying my marriage. I told God, “Either take this desire away, or I’ll end my life.”
A Divine Nudge
In that moment of surrender, I felt God speak to my heart: “Give Me 30 days, and you will be healed.” I didn’t understand what that meant, but I made the commitment. Each day felt like a battle, but I chose to rely on God’s strength. I began reading Scripture more intentionally, focusing on verses about deliverance and His faithfulness. I also leaned heavily on Sandy, sharing my struggles when I felt weak.
Those 30 days weren’t perfect, but every time I chose sobriety, I felt a little stronger. By the end of that month, the desire to drink and use drugs vanished. It was a healing I can only describe as miraculous. Later, I realized that every miracle in the Bible was preceded by obedience. Those 30 days were my act of obedience.
I ran to Sandy, telling her I was giving up drugs and alcohol for good. She was cautiously optimistic. She had heard my promises before, but this time, it felt different. She said, “I’ll help you.” Her support meant everything.
The Role of Love and Support in Recovery
In recovery, love and support are essential—especially in marriage. Sandy’s unwavering love helped me find healing. She loved me through my brokenness, even when it was hard. She prayed over me and encouraged me to find healthy ways to cope. Sandy’s love wasn’t passive; it was active, intentional, and deeply rooted in a belief that God could redeem our situation. Through her, I experienced God’s love, which softened my heart and made space for God to work.
Marriage, like recovery, is a journey. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve also seen God’s faithfulness every step of the way. From the pain of addiction to the grief of losing my father and Sandy’s mother in 2022, we’ve clung to each other and to our faith. Our marriage, now 22 years strong, is a testament to God’s redemption.
Lessons from 17 Years of Sobriety and Marriage
- God Heals, but Obedience Precedes Miracles
James 4:7 reminds us, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” My act of obedience in those 30 days opened the door for God’s healing, not just in my life, but in my marriage as well. - The Power of Love and Support
1 Corinthians 13:7 teaches us that “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Sandy’s love was instrumental in my recovery, reflecting God’s unconditional love for me and helping break the chains of addiction. - Sobriety is Possible for Everyone
Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Whether through AA, Celebrate Recovery, therapy, or quiet moments with God, recovery is possible. God has a unique path for each person, but His strength is the same for all.
Hope and Perseverance in Marriage
Marriage can be both a source of great joy and a space where God works through our deepest struggles. Just as addiction can be overcome through faith, so too can the challenges we face as a couple. Whether you’re facing struggles with addiction, communication issues, or loss, know that God’s power to heal and restore is available to you. My journey to sobriety wasn’t just about breaking free from addiction—it was about healing my marriage, strengthening our bond, and allowing God to transform our lives.
Today, I write and speak about my journey, launching a marriage ministry born from the lessons learned in our own struggles. Sandy and I have been able to share our story with others, hoping to inspire couples to find hope and healing in the midst of their trials.
Final Thoughts: Trusting God for Healing
If you are struggling, whether in addiction or another area of your marriage, know this: God sees you. He hasn’t given up on you. Take that first step of obedience—whether it’s asking for help, seeking counseling, or simply trusting God to lead you through the darkness. Your story isn’t over yet.
Sandy and I didn’t get here by our own strength, but by God’s grace. And just as He has redeemed our lives and our marriage, He can do the same for you. Your journey may look different from mine, but if I can find healing and redemption, I know you can too.
Latest posts by Chris Benton (see all)
- Reflecting on 17 Years of Sobriety: A Marriage Built on Faith and Redemption - December 26, 2024
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- Trusting God & Loving Recklessly - November 25, 2024