Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook

A Guided Workbook for Overcoming Addiction through Biblical Principles

By Dr. Stephen Mbuvi

Introduction
This workbook is designed to provide structured guidance for individuals seeking to overcome
addiction through faith-based principles. It includes reflective exercises, group discussions,
prayer guidance, and action steps to support long-term recovery.

How to Use This Workbook

 This workbook can be used for:

 Personal study and journaling
 One-on-one counseling
 Group recovery sessions

Each session includes:

 A key lesson with biblical foundations
 A scripture passage for reflection
 Personal journaling exercises
 Group discussion questions
 Action steps for practical application
 A closing prayer


Session 1: Understanding Addiction

Scripture for Reflection: Romans 7:15-25
Overview: Addiction is a battle of the mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing that God offers true
deliverance is the first step.
Discussion Question:

What habits or behaviors have kept you in bondage?

Personal Reflection & Journaling:
Write down your personal struggles and any past attempts to overcome addiction.
Action Steps:
1. Identify one area where you need God's deliverance.
2. Pray daily for strength.
3. Find an accountability partner.

Group Discussion Activity:

Share experiences about addiction and discuss how God can intervene.

Read and discuss Romans 7:15-25.

Facilitator’s Notes:
Encourage honesty and trust.
Emphasize God's grace and healing.
---

Session 2: Breaking the Chains

Scripture for Reflection: Isaiah 61:1

Overview: Identifying areas of bondage and learning how to break free through faith and action.
Discussion Question:

What strongholds do you need to surrender to God?

Personal Reflection & Journaling:

Write down the things that hold you captive and how you can release them to God.

Action Steps:

1. Pray for spiritual freedom.

2. Speak scriptures over your life.
3. Avoid triggers that lead to temptation.

Group Discussion Activity:

Share testimonies of how faith has helped in difficult times.
Discuss Isaiah 61:1 and how it applies to overcoming addiction.
Facilitator’s Notes:
Encourage surrendering struggles to God.
Reinforce that healing is a process.
---

Session 3: Renewing the Mind

Scripture for Reflection: Romans 12:2

Overview: Replacing destructive thoughts with biblical truth and practicing mental renewal.
Discussion Question:
How can you align your thoughts with God’s Word?

Action Steps:
1. Identify negative thoughts and replace them with scripture.
2. Meditate on God’s promises.
3. Practice gratitude daily.
Session 4: Surrendering to God

Scripture for Reflection: Proverbs 3:5-6

Overview: Learning to fully trust in God and submit your recovery process to Him.

Discussion Question:

What areas of your life do you struggle to surrender?

Action Steps:

1. Write a prayer of surrender.

2. Seek guidance from a spiritual mentor.

3. Trust God’s plan for your healing.

Session 5: Healing and Forgiveness

Scripture for Reflection: Matthew 6:14-15

Overview: Understanding how forgiveness is a key step in emotional and spiritual healing.

Discussion Question:
Who do you need to forgive to move forward?
Action Steps:

1. Make a list of people to forgive.

2. Pray for healing and release.
3. Seek reconciliation where possible.

Session 6: The Power of Accountability

Scripture for Reflection: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Overview: The importance of having trusted individuals to support your journey.

Discussion Question:
Who can be your accountability partner?
Action Steps:
1. Find someone to walk with you in recovery.
2. Commit to regular check-ins.
3. Be honest about struggles.
---
Session 7: Declaring Freedom
Scripture for Reflection: John 8:36
Overview: The power of speaking and living in the freedom given by Christ.

Discussion Question:
What scriptures can you declare over your life?

Action Steps:
1. Memorize freedom scriptures.
2. Speak life over your situation.
3. Walk in confidence as a child of God.

Session 8: Overcoming Relapse

Scripture for Reflection: 1 Corinthians 10:13
Overview: Identifying triggers and building a plan to prevent relapse.
Discussion Question:
What triggers do you need to guard against?
Action Steps:
1. Identify high-risk situations.
2. Develop healthy coping strategies.
3. Seek support when tempted.

Session 9: New Identity in Christ

Scripture for Reflection: 2 Corinthians 5:17
Overview: Understanding and walking in your new identity in Christ.

Discussion Question:
How does God see you as a new creation?
Action Steps:

1. Embrace your new identity.

2. Let go of past labels.
3. Live with confidence in Christ.

Session 10: Building a Purposeful Life

Scripture for Reflection: Jeremiah 29:11
Overview: Discovering and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life beyond addiction.

Discussion Question:
What purpose is God calling you to?
Action Steps:
1. Set new life goals.
2. Serve in your community.
3. Develop a deeper relationship with God.
Final Reflection
Congratulations on completing this journey! Take time to reflect on your growth and write down
key lessons learned. Commit to a lifestyle of freedom and continuous spiritual growth.
Prayer of Dedication
Heavenly Father, thank You for guiding me through this recovery journey. I commit my life to
You and trust in Your strength to keep me free from addiction. Help me walk daily in faith and
purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Final Enhancements

1. Testimonies Section
Purpose:
Testimonies are powerful tools in addiction recovery. They inspire, encourage, and provide real-
life examples of God’s transformative power. Hearing about someone else’s journey from
addiction to freedom gives hope to those still struggling.

Content Structure:
Personal Stories: Real-life testimonies from individuals who overcame addiction through faith.
Before & After: How their lives changed after surrendering to God.
Key Lessons: What they learned through the recovery process.

Encouragement to Readers: A final word to motivate those currently battling addiction.

Example Testimony Format:

Name (Optional): John K.
Addiction Struggled With: Alcohol
Turning Point: A near-fatal accident made John realize he needed God’s help.
Recovery Journey: John joined a faith-based recovery program, prayed daily, and leaned on
scripture.
Current Life: Now free from addiction, he mentors others and shares his story in church.
Encouragement: “If God changed my life, He can change yours too. Surrender to Him!”
Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Testimonies Section

Testimony 1: From Darkness to Light

Name (Optional): James M.

Addiction Struggled With: Alcohol and gambling
Turning Point: After losing his job and nearly losing his family, James hit rock bottom. One
night, he walked into a church service and felt an overwhelming conviction to change.
Recovery Journey: Through prayer, counseling, and the support of a faith-based recovery group,
James began to rebuild his life. He memorized scripture, replaced his addiction with productive
activities, and learned to trust God daily.
Current Life: Now free from addiction, James runs a small business and mentors others
struggling with substance abuse.
Encouragement: “No addiction is too strong for God. If you’re struggling, surrender it to Him.
He will restore you.”

Testimony 2: The Power of Prayer and Scripture

Name (Optional): Mary K.

Addiction Struggled With: Prescription drug dependency
Turning Point: After an overdose scare, Mary realized she was on the path to destruction. She
called out to God in desperation and felt a deep conviction to seek help.
Recovery Journey: Through faith-based therapy, daily Bible reading, and joining a recovery
fellowship, Mary overcame her dependency. She discovered that healing begins in the heart and
mind through God’s Word.
Current Life: Mary now leads a women’s prayer group and helps others find freedom through
faith.
Encouragement: “The enemy wants you to believe you can’t change, but God’s truth sets you
free. Hold onto His promises.”
Testimony 3: Breaking Free Through Fellowship

Name (Optional): David O.

Addiction Struggled With: Drug use (cocaine)
Turning Point: David lost everything—his job, home, and relationships. A friend invited him to a
church program, where he met others who had overcome addiction. Their stories gave him hope.
Recovery Journey: With faith-based group support, prayer, and a structured 12-step biblical
recovery program, David slowly rebuilt his life. He found strength in accountability and
scripture.
Current Life: David now speaks at schools and rehabilitation centers, sharing his testimony to
inspire others.
Encouragement: “God used my lowest point to bring me to my highest calling. If He can do it for
me, He can do it for you.”

---

Next Section: Daily Journal Pages

Pastor: Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Daily Journal Pages

Purpose:
Journaling is a powerful tool in addiction recovery. It helps individuals reflect on their progress,
identify triggers, and deepen their relationship with God. Writing down thoughts, prayers, and
struggles provides emotional release and clarity.

Daily Journal Template

Date: ____

1. How do I feel today?

☐ Joyful ☐ Hopeful ☐ Anxious ☐ Tempted ☐ Strong ☐ Weak ☐ Other: ____

2. What scripture encouraged me today?

(Example: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”)

3. What challenges did I face today?

4. How did I respond to these challenges?

5. What is one thing I am grateful for today?
6. What prayer do I need to pray today?
Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Scripture Memory Plan

Purpose:
Memorizing scripture strengthens the mind and spirit, helping individuals replace negative
thoughts with God’s truth. In moments of temptation, recalling God’s promises provides strength
and guidance.
Weekly Scripture Memory Plan (12 Weeks)
Each week, participants will memorize a verse related to faith, healing, and overcoming
addiction.

Week 1: Strength in Christ

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13
Week 2: Breaking Chains
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." – John 8:36
Week 3: Renewing the Mind
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
– Romans 12:2
Week 4: God’s Faithfulness in Temptation
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He
will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear." – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Week 5: Calling on God for Help
"Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me." – Psalm 50:15
Week 6: Healing from Past Wounds
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." – Psalm 147:3
Week 7: Strength in Weakness
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Week 8: Living a New Life
"If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" – 2
Corinthians 5:17
Week 9: Power Over the Enemy
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." – James 4:7
Week 10: Trusting in God’s Plan
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm
you, plans to give you hope and a future." – Jeremiah 29:11
Week 11: Walking in Victory
"But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." – 1 Corinthians
15:57
Week 12: Finishing Strong
"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer
and perfecter of faith." – Hebrews 12:1-2

Memory Plan Format:

✅ One verse per week for 12 weeks

✅ Reflection prompts – How does this verse apply to my recovery?

✅ Application challenge – Using the verse in daily life (e.g., writing it down, speaking it aloud,
praying with it)

Next Section: Scripture Memory Plan

Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Scripture Memory Plan
Purpose:
Memorizing scripture strengthens the mind and spirit, helping individuals replace negative
thoughts with God’s truth. In moments of temptation, recalling God’s promises provides strength
and guidance.
Weekly Scripture Memory Plan (12 Weeks)

Each week, participants will memorize a verse related to faith, healing, and overcoming
addiction.
Week 1: Strength in Christ
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13
Week 2: Breaking Chains
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." – John 8:36
Week 3: Renewing the Mind
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
– Romans 12:2
Week 4: God’s Faithfulness in Temptation
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He
will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear." – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Week 5: Calling on God for Help
"Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me." – Psalm 50:15
Week 6: Healing from Past Wounds
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." – Psalm 147:3
Week 7: Strength in Weakness
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Week 8: Living a New Life
"If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" – 2
Corinthians 5:17
Week 9: Power Over the Enemy
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." – James 4:7
Week 10: Trusting in God’s Plan"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans
to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." – Jeremiah 29:11
Week 11: Walking in Victory
"But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." – 1 Corinthians
15:57
Week 12: Finishing Strong
"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer
and perfecter of faith." – Hebrews 12:1-2

Memory Plan Format:

✅ One verse per week for 12 weeks

✅ Reflection prompts – How does this verse apply to my recovery?

✅ Application challenge – Using the verse in daily life (e.g., writing it down, speaking it aloud,
praying with it)
---

Next Section: Facilitator’s Guide

Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Facilitator’s Guide

Purpose:
This guide equips facilitators with the tools to lead effective faith-based recovery sessions. It
includes session structures, discussion prompts, and strategies for supporting participants on their
journey to freedom from addiction.

Session Structure Overview

Each session should follow a structured yet flexible format to encourage engagement,
accountability, and spiritual growth.

1. Opening Prayer (5 Minutes)

Begin each session by inviting God’s presence.
Ask for wisdom, healing, and strength for participants.
Example prayer: “Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing us together. We surrender our
struggles to You and ask for Your guidance. Let Your Word transform our hearts and lead us to
freedom. Amen.”

2. Check-In & Testimonies (15 Minutes)

Each participant shares their progress, struggles, or victories from the past week.
Encourage honesty without judgment.
Use guiding questions:
What challenges did you face this week?
How did you respond?
Did you experience any victories in resisting temptation?

3. Scripture & Teaching (20 Minutes)

Introduce the weekly scripture and theme.
Read the passage aloud and discuss its meaning.
Example session themes:
Week 1: Strength in Christ (Philippians 4:13)
Week 5: Healing Past Wounds (Psalm 147:3)
Week 10: Trusting God’s Plan (Jeremiah 29:11)

4. Group Discussion (20 Minutes)

Use open-ended questions to encourage reflection:
How does this scripture apply to your recovery?
What changes do you need to make based on today’s lesson?
How can we support each other in staying accountable?

5. Practical Application & Challenge (10 Minutes)

Assign an action step for the upcoming week.
Example challenges:
Memorize the week’s scripture.
Journal about a personal struggle and pray over it.
Identify and replace one negative habit with a positive one.

6. Closing Prayer & Encouragement (5 Minutes)

Thank God for the session.
Pray for strength, wisdom, and protection over the participants.
Encourage members to stay connected and support one another.
Facilitator Guidelines
✅ Be Compassionate – Lead with love and understanding.

✅ Encourage Participation – Everyone should feel heard and valued.

✅ Maintain Confidentiality – What is shared in the group stays in the group.

✅ Promote Accountability – Encourage honesty about struggles and progress.

✅ Keep Christ at the Center – Always point participants back to God’s Word.

Next Section: Reflection & Growth Exercises

Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Reflection & Growth Exercises

Purpose:
These exercises help participants reflect on their journey, apply biblical truths, and track their
progress in overcoming addiction. Each section includes guided questions, journaling prompts,
and action steps to reinforce spiritual and personal growth.

Each participant should take time to reflect on their struggles, victories, and spiritual journey.
A. Identifying Triggers & Patterns
What are the main triggers that lead me into addictive behavior?
When do I feel most tempted?
How do my thoughts and emotions contribute to my struggles?

B. Recognizing God’s Presence in Recovery

How has God helped me in my journey so far?
What biblical promises give me strength in difficult moments?
In what areas do I still need to trust God more?

C. Evaluating Progress & Setting Goals

What changes have I noticed in my mindset and behavior?
What small victories have I celebrated?
What are my goals for the next week, month, and year?

2. Journaling Exercises
Writing down thoughts and prayers can be a powerful tool in the healing process.
A. Writing a Letter to God
Express your struggles, fears, and hopes in a letter to God.
Ask Him for specific guidance and strength.
B. Gratitude & Praise Journal
List three things you are grateful for each day.
Reflect on how God has been working in your life.
C. Overcoming Challenges Log
Write about a recent challenge and how you responded.
Identify what worked and what could be improved.

3. Scripture-Based Action Steps

Each week, participants should commit to a specific action that reinforces biblical principles.
Examples:
Week 1: Replace a negative habit with a positive one (Philippians 4:13).
Week 3: Write down and declare a personal victory over addiction (Romans 12:2).
Week 7: Pray for someone else struggling with addiction (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Week 10: Testify to a trusted friend about a breakthrough (Revelation 12:11).

4. Accountability & Support System

A. Accountability Partner Check-ins
Choose a trusted friend, mentor, or support group member.
Share weekly progress, challenges, and prayer requests.
Encourage each other through phone calls, texts, or meetings.

B. Group Support & Encouragement

Commit to attending group meetings regularly.
Participate in discussions and offer encouragement to others.
Share testimonies to inspire and uplift fellow participants.

Next Section: Recovery Milestones & Celebration Plan

Faith-Based Addiction Recovery Workbook – Recovery Milestones & Celebration Plan
Purpose:
This section helps participants recognize their progress, celebrate victories, and stay motivated in
their recovery journey. It includes key milestones, self-assessments, and ways to honor personal
growth through faith.

1. Recovery Milestones
Recovery is a journey with measurable progress. Here are five key milestones participants can
track:
✅ Milestone 1: Acknowledging the Problem
Biblical Foundation: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
Personal Reflection:
Have I honestly admitted my addiction to myself, God, and a trusted person?
What steps have I taken to surrender my struggle to God?

✅ Milestone 2: Breaking Old Patterns

Biblical Foundation: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2)
Personal Reflection:
What negative behaviors have I eliminated?
How am I replacing destructive habits with godly principles?

✅ Milestone 3: Walking in Accountability

Biblical Foundation: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)
Personal Reflection:
Have I established a strong accountability system?
How often do I check in with my accountability partner or group?
✅ Milestone 4: Overcoming Triggers with Faith
Biblical Foundation: "God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can
bear." (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Personal Reflection:
How do I respond to temptation now compared to before?
What scripture or prayer helps me resist addiction?
✅ Milestone 5: Testifying to God’s Power
Biblical Foundation: "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their
testimony." (Revelation 12:11)
Personal Reflection:
How has my story changed since starting this journey?
Am I willing to share my testimony to encourage others?
2. Celebration Plan
🎉 Why Celebrate?
Acknowledging victories, big or small, reinforces progress and encourages continued growth.
Ways to Celebrate Recovery Milestones:
1. Personal Reflection & Prayer: Thank God for progress and ask for continued strength.
2. Journaling Growth: Write about the transformation process, including challenges overcome.
3. Sharing Your Story: Encourage others by testifying about breakthroughs.
4. Hosting a Celebration Service: Organize a faith-based gathering to acknowledge recovery
progress.
5. Committing to Help Others: Serve as a mentor or sponsor to someone struggling with
addiction.

3. Final Encouragement & Commitment Pledge

Personal Declaration of Freedom:
“I, ____, declare in Jesus’ name that I am free from addiction. I commit to walking in faith,
relying on God’s Word, and seeking accountability. I trust that God has a purpose for my life,
and I will use my testimony to glorify Him. Amen.”

Next Section: Scripture Memory Plan

Prayers for Healing & Deliverance
Purpose:
Prayer is a powerful tool in addiction recovery. It invites God’s healing, strength, and guidance.
This section includes specific prayers for deliverance, renewal, and daily strength.

📖 How to Use These Prayers:

1. Pray aloud with faith and sincerity.
2. Personalize the words by inserting your name or specific struggles.
3. Repeat daily, especially during moments of weakness or temptation.
4. Journal reflections after prayer to track your healing journey.
5. Share with a mentor or accountability partner for encouragement.

🔹 Prayer for Deliverance from Addiction

Heavenly Father,
I come before You in humility, acknowledging that I cannot overcome this addiction on my own.
Your Word says, "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36). I claim that
promise today. Lord, break the chains that bind me, remove the cravings that enslave me, and
replace them with a hunger for righteousness. Wash me clean and renew my mind. Strengthen
me to walk away from temptation and surround me with people who will uplift me in this
journey. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
🔹 Prayer for Strength in Weakness
Father God,
I feel weak and overwhelmed, but You promised, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power
is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). Right now, I surrender my weakness to You.
Fill me with Your Spirit and give me the strength to resist temptation. When I feel like giving up,
remind me that You are my refuge and my help. I trust in Your power to sustain me. In Jesus’
name, Amen.
---
🔹 Prayer for a Renewed Mind

Lord Jesus,
Your Word says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). I ask You to renew my mind, removing every lie that
keeps me bound to addiction. Replace fear with faith, shame with grace, and despair with hope.
Let my thoughts be aligned with Your truth. I declare that I am a new creation in Christ. In
Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
🔹 Prayer for Protection from Temptation
Father in Heaven,
You said, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is
faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear" (1 Corinthians 10:13). Lord,
help me recognize the traps of the enemy. Give me the wisdom to avoid triggers and the strength
to flee from temptation. Let Your Holy Spirit guide my steps so that I walk in purity and
righteousness. I put my trust in You, knowing that You will always provide a way out. In Jesus’
name, Amen.

🔹 Prayer for Emotional Healing

Dear Lord,
I carry pain from my past—hurts, regrets, and wounds that fuel my addiction. But Your Word
says, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" (Psalm 147:3). Heal my heart,
Lord. Restore my joy and teach me to forgive myself and others. Let me find peace in Your
presence and healing in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🔹 Prayer for Breaking Generational Addictions

Almighty God,
I declare that addiction will not define my family or my future. Your Word says, "The Lord is
faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made" (Psalm 145:13). I stand on that
promise today, breaking every generational curse of addiction in Jesus' name. I declare that my
children and future generations will walk in freedom. Thank You for making all things new. In
Jesus’ name, Amen.
🔹 Prayer for New Life in Christ
Heavenly Father,
I surrender my past, my failures, and my struggles to You. Your Word says, "Therefore, if
anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
I receive this new life with joy and gratitude. Guide me daily, help me grow in my faith, and fill
me with Your Holy Spirit. Let my life be a testimony of Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
🔹 Prayer for Thanksgiving & Victory
Lord,
I thank You for the victories You have given me. Even in moments of struggle, I will praise You.
Your Word says,
 "Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians
15:57). I trust that You are leading me into complete healing and restoration. May my life bring
glory to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.