Addiction doesn't stay self-contained — especially in a marriage. In this honest and pastorally rich conversation, Derek, Gabrielle, and John Elmore talk about how to recognize addiction, what it does to a marriage, and what courageous, biblical steps actually look like for both the addict and the spouse who loves them.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

- John described the difference between being "enslaved" to something versus "occasionally enticed" by it. Using that framework, is there anything in your life right now that feels more like enslavement than struggle?

- John mentioned several "Ds" of addiction: duration, depth, deceit, destruction, defensiveness, dependency. Are any of those present in your life or your marriage in ways worth naming?

- Gabrielle shared that when asked to give up Diet Coke for a year, her reaction surprised her. Is there anything in your life where the thought of giving it up produces a stronger reaction than you'd expect?

- John said that "struggling" looks like confessing, feeling convicted, and moving toward accountability — while addiction looks like enjoyment despite destruction. Which of those better describes your relationship with your hardest habit?

- If your spouse gently raised a concern about something you're running to, how would you honestly respond — and what might that response reveal?

- For the spouse walking alongside an addict: have you carried this alone, or have you brought others in? Who could you call this week?

RESOURCES

- Freedom Starts Today by John Elmore