What if the most dangerous addictions aren't the ones society warns us about, but the ones it actively encourages? In this thought-provoking conversation with Mike Helwig, a pastor turned licensed psychological counselor, we explore the concept of "acceptable addictions" - those normalized behaviors that silently damage our relationship with God and divide us from our community.

Helwig brings a unique perspective as someone who combines theological training with clinical mental health expertise. He defines addiction clearly: compulsively engaging in behavior you're powerless to change alone, to the point where you ignore negative consequences. While society recognizes substance abuse as problematic, we often overlook equally destructive normalized behaviors like excessive phone usage, emotional eating, workaholism, and what was once called gambling but has been rebranded as "gaming."

The spiritual dimension of these behaviors proves particularly troubling. "Addiction is really rooted in sinfulness, and sinfulness divides me from God," Helwig explains. "When I separate myself from God, I also separate myself from the people who stand best positioned to help me." This division creates a dangerous cycle where normalized addictions flourish unchallenged.

Recognizing you have a problem starts with honest self-assessment, professional evaluation, or simply listening to loved ones who see patterns you've normalized. Helwig shares his own journey to sobriety and offers a transformative four-window wellness plan focusing on spiritual practices, emotional/mental health, physical wellness, and social connections – a holistic approach recognizing God designed us for authentic connection.

The path to recovery begins with confession to trusted Christians who respond with Christ's forgiveness, removing shame that perpetuates addictive cycles. This creates space to replace harmful coping mechanisms with healthy alternatives. As Helwig notes, "When you rid yourself of something, there's a cavity the devil wants to fill."

Take the first step toward freedom by examining what you've normalized. Have your "acceptable" habits become unacceptable barriers between you and authentic connection with God and others? Join us as we explore breaking free from the addictions we don't talk about.

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Find strength and courage in your faith at this year’s FEARLESS FAITH Conference. Inspired by Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous,” join us Saturday, September 13, at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School in Jackson, Wisconsin, for presentations on navigating life’s storms, understanding God’s peace, and engaging in crucial conversations about euthanasia, anorexia, abortion, prenatal genetic testing, and more. Hear powerful journeys of faith through loss and hope. Don’t miss this empowering event! $50 in person or $40 virtual. Register now: https://christianliferesources.com/resources/events/2025-conference/

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