I am nowhere without God

[wide eyes]

Hello,
I have been a christian for 3 years. I have not tuched a drop of alcohol or taken any drug for 3 and a 1/2 years. My spouse has been in and out of recovery for 15 years, he is also a christian.
Just recently my spouse relapsed for a 3 day period, following his father's funeral. I left him in the city were we were and came back home alone, as soon as I realized what was going on. He returned a cupple of days later. He has been sober ever since (2 weeks).
We attend a christ centered recovery group, but not regularly. We haven't attended for months actually. My spouse thinks he can go back to business as usuall without going to his meetings. "His father's death was sudden and unexpected, he was caught off gard."
He has been reading the Bible dayly as well as his devotions, but I worry that is not enough to keep him from falling back into his addiction. He is devoted to following Jesus, even more so than I. He is a kind, loving man and my best friend.I don't want to lose him to the enemy again. There is nothing I can do but hand it over to God, I know that I have no power to change my spouse, only myself.
He has spent about 1 year of the 4 1/2 years of our relationship in his addiction. I know that I can not enable him in any way if he does fall back. But we have been so happy together in these past years that I can't bare the thought of what I might have to do if he goes back to drinking.
I pray to God that he will protect him and guide him in the word. But free will and sinfull nature seperates us from the Lord. And the Father will never force himself on anyone. So will you pray for him with me? Will you pray for us both?
I am so afraid for my future. I made a commitment to remain with him for life I pray that life is not one of seperation from the one I love.

Does anyone know how this feels?

[best]

He has been reading the Bible daily as well as his devotions, but I worry that is not enough to keep him from falling back into his addiction.

If he is taking in what he is reading, it is enough.
You can enable him to a degree. Stand aside with him with his commitment to Jesus.
Read with him and do devotions together. As two become one... in service to the Lord, the two become stronger together. Let his devotion to the Lord encourage you and by coming along side of him in his studies, you will also encourage him.
I do know how it feels, I was separated for just over two years. The Lord changed my heart and we have gotten back together. With the Love of Jesus inside of me, the past 6 years have been the best 6 years of my whole marriage.
When two become as one...nothing can stop you.

We attend a Christ centered recovery group, but not regularly. We haven't attended for months actually.

The fellowship with others helps us build up our strength. Storming the walls of temptation is easier done with others at our side.
Why work hard when we can work smarter. A group makes for lighter work of things.
When one of us starts to fall, there are many that can help lift us up.

Prayers for you both.

"Let us not give up the habit of meeting together ... instead let us encourage one another." - Heb. 10:25 (GN)

[cwohio]

no wisdom, but prayers out to both of you!!

[cmc]

Does anyone know how this feels?

Oh yes, many know how it feels! Our situations may differ in detail, but yes the not knowing what the future holds, will your loved one stay sober or not... the list is endless. Many here on our Christian forum live with and love people who struggle as your husband does. Many are in recovery themselves.

More important is that the Lord knows how you feel! He knows and cares and I will pray that you will find wisdom and strength to find your way through this. Remember that your husband is making his own choices-it seems from your writing that you understand about enabling. God is speaking to his heart and it is up to him to listen to His voice.

The verse I have used here was sent to me today from my husband while he was at work. By the way, over 25 years ago when his brother died, he began to use again and although it was a terrible time, he did stop using and we have had a wonderful marraige lasting over 32 years.

When we were discussing this verse my husband said to 'toss' my fears and anxiety upon the Lord. When I did this today I visualized me tossing it all upon the cross. Once I am placed in God's hands I am secure.

I hope that you will keep coming to our forum. We are with you in this and you will find alot of great people who will be praying for you.

God bless you and your husband.
1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

[rayofsunshine]

Prayers for you both. May you each grow stronger in your
recovery each day.

[Lazurus]

Yes, the loss of a loved one because of addiction is a terrible thing. my Wife of 10 years left me in 93 because of my alcoholism. I drank for another 13 years, and just now am seeking help. Keep placing your faith in God. He will lead you to the answers. My Dad died in 96 ( from alcohol ) and I remember the pain I endured for years afterward. Don't give up hope and don't give up your faith. If there was ever a time your Husband needs you to be strong it is now. May God bless you and guide you through this difficult time. My prayers are with you.