Core Christian values could be widely disputed, but it’s probably safe to say that the foundation of Christianity is based on loving God—a higher power—and loving others as you love yourself. Forgiveness is also an essential aspect of Christianity; the Bible states that you should forgive those who have wronged you, including both enemies and yourself. In addition, it’s important to ask forgiveness of those you have wronged. Mistakes are inevitable, and you’re not unlovable when you make them.
St. Gregory Recovery Center operates under a set of what we believe are core Christian values that support a life well lived:
- Accountability
- Competency
- Resilience
- Consideration
- Dedication
- Collaboration
Each of these components directly contributes to a satisfying sobriety filled with opportunities to reach your goals, build connections, and feel centered and at ease.
The Intersection of Christian Values and The Science of Recovery
While Christianity isn’t the only religion that advocates the values mentioned above, it offers a wonderful lens through which to view recovery as a long-term, attractive, and sustainable lifestyle. And there is actually evidence to support implementing faith and spirituality into recovery treatment programs. Scientists have found that spirituality combats addiction in many ways:
- Bolsters accountability and resilience in many areas of life
- Increases situations that require collaboration, creating more of an affinity toward collaboration
- Decreases substance abuse and use in teenagers and young adults
- Decreases instances of addiction, dependence, and substance abuse in both men and women
Unfortunately, certain elements of Christian culture still stigmatize addiction, making it difficult for some Christians to feel comfortable seeking treatment. However, we believe that the power of God’s love transcends our human understanding, and that our job as people of faith is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, welcoming space for our clients, no matter their religious or spiritual background.
Christian Values That Prevent Substance Abuse
Another underlying base of Christianity is the belief in each person’s inherent worth. If you believe that you were created by a higher power who loves and sustains you, harming yourself with substances becomes less appealing. In this way, the Christian faith and its values act as preventive care when it comes to addiction.
Perhaps it doesn’t come as such a surprise that the many studies focused on the relationship between religion and substance use find that adults and teens who are more religious tend to use drugs, alcohol, and tobacco less frequently. More research is needed, but so far the evidence suggests that faith reduces substance use, perhaps because it lessens the drive to numb or escape from one’s emotions. Whether it’s through prayer, meditation, or involvement in faith-based communities and recovery programs like the one we offer at our Iowa facility, connecting with a higher power can only help your recovery.
Explore Faith and Sobriety With St. Gregory Recovery Center
When you’re feeling like substances have taken over your life, we’re here for you. It’s not our goal to convert you to the Christian faith, or reject the faith that you’re coming from. No matter what you believe, we strive to provide you with the tools and experiences that will help you build self-esteem, resilience, dedication, and commitment to your long-term well-being.
