Biblical Language and Addiction; Why Words Matter in the Fight Against Addiction

At Hope for Addiction, our approach is deeply rooted in something that never changes — God’s Word. While the world offers shifting definitions and labels for addiction, we’ve chosen a different path. One that leads to lasting change, not just behavior modification.

Real transformation happens not through programs, but through the power of gospel and Scripture. Hebrews 4:12 tells us, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword… discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Because of this, we’re intentional about the words we use. We don’t rely on clinical or cultural language that may cloud the truth — instead, we use simple, biblical terms that everyone can understand. Why? Because when we use the language of the Bible, we point people directly to the Source of hope — Jesus.

Biblical language doesn’t just give us clarity — it connects us to our Creator. It helps us see ourselves rightly, through God’s eyes, and brings hope for change. Cultural terms may sound helpful, but they often lead us away from truth and away from the freedom from sin that was secured at the cross.

Many of the world’s terms have been redefined — including “addiction.” But if we let culture dictate the language we use, we risk making Scripture feel irrelevant to the very real struggles people face. And we believe the Bible has everything to say about those struggles.

When we allow the truth of Scripture to shape how we define problems, we can also trust it to provide real, lasting solutions. That’s the heart of Hope for Addiction — and it’s why we remain anchored in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.

Below is a list of commonly used cultural terms alongside the biblical truth that helps us understand and respond in light of Scripture.

Biblical Language.pdf

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About the author: Liz Beck is the Founder of Hope for Addiction