Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #11 — Addicted

Picture: Counsel #11 — Addicted CR 158.1

When praying for a godly soulmate, it’s important to look past surface-level attributes. Attraction, shared interests, and chemistry are all great, but real love is built on deeper things like self-control and mental health. CR 158.2

For example, a godly partner will never be mastered by any substance, whether it’s alcohol, drugs, pornography, or any unhealthy mindset that clouds judgment and damages trust. Addiction creates walls where God designed connection, and it robs relationships of stability, honesty, and peace. Choosing someone still controlled by addiction isn’t just a hard road; it’s a road God never meant for you to walk. Don’t get me wrong, being selective with who you choose to let into your heart is not judging - it’s protecting your future and honoring God’s design for a healthy, Christ-centered relationship. As Christians, our expectation of a soulmate should be someone walking toward Christ in freedom and not trapped by secret battles they’re unwilling to surrender. God’s best for you is someone who can love you with a whole heart, so trust Him enough to wait for a love that is both emotionally and spiritually safe.^[165] CR 158.3

“For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.” Romans 6:14 NIV CR 158.4

“They become addicted to the use of wine and alcohol, tobacco and opium, and go from one stage of debasement to another.” Ellen White in Temperance, p. 273 CR 158.5

Reflect: Does your partner struggle with substance or emotional addiction issues? CR 158.6