I love what you said about messy sanctification. I too have been frustrated with how the Christian community hides and shames when real people are battling real issues. In 2010, I had an affair. My husband and I went thru an incredibly difficult time before, during and after that season and thru Gods mercy we just celebrated 20 years of marriage. But this is a part of my story I don’t share with most and if I really think about it, it’s probably because of the judgement I received from my Christian brothers and sisters. People are quick to assume when they have no idea what’s really going on.
Anyway, it’s brave to be open about our struggles and even downfalls sometimes, especially when we can point them back to the redemptive work God has done in our lives. Pride tells us “I would never do that” but learning what we are capable of offers a level of humility that is life changing.
Dang, thanks for sharing that Danielle! I'm actually working with a woman right now to tell her own story of infidelity and redemption. God can redeem anything!
In a culture where Christian leaders are only “coming clean” when their sin is revealed against their will, I am SO refreshed by your openness to share your humanity precisely because God asked you to. It’s beautiful how God’s version of obedience actually unlocks our chains. There is so much freedom, won by Christ for us, in doing what you just did. Well done, Jon. Bless you.
Thank you so much for sharing and being vulnerable and leaning on those that support you as well as the Lord who will support you during these times. I wanted to let you know about a Christ centered 12 step program that I attend - Celebrate Recovery - there are meetings everywhere! I encourage you to seek them out and start meeting your new forever family! God bless!
Amen to Celebrate Recovery. I wasn't drinking for a couple of years but there was absolutely no joy in my life until a Celebrate recovery group started near me. Now I really do Celebrate recovery not just not drink.
Hallelujah, Lorraine! I love that Celebrate Recovery is for ANY "hurt, habit, or hang-up"! Alcohol, drugs, porn, codependency, eating disorders, control issues, anger issues, anything and everything is possible with the support of our Lord and others!
Thanks, Bill. I have heard about Celebrate Recovery, and appreciate you reminding me. I'll be talking soon about my own path, and can't wait to share it.
Thanks for sharing Jon! You’re part of a pretty big group. I’ve got 20+ years. When some of us get together my friend likes to say, “The person here with the most sobriety is the one who got up first.” Grateful for what God is doing in you.
I knew there was a reason I felt led to subscribe and support your Substack. You are still my only paid subscription.
I don’t understand the pain of alcohol addiction, but I certainly understand God calling us out into deep waters, the temptation to say No and then the fear, trepidation and vulnerability, as well as the power, calling and blessings of saying “yes”.
I’m praying for you and lifting you up, brother. Thank you for saying Yes to God’s calling on your life. Thank you for refusing to hide in fear and hypocrisy. Today you step out of the boat onto the raging sea. Keep your eyes always and only on Jesus, who says to you, “Come”. Do not get distracted by the waves of people’s advice, opinions and feedback. You are following Jesus into deep waters, and he will always be there to sustain you, to encourage you, and to pull you out when you get distracted and start to sink.
Lifting you up in prayer, my brother, today especially. I’m honored to walk this faith road with brothers and sisters who endorse and express and share this life of “messy spirituality” with me. You are my people. Sending you so much love.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Yes this. It’s why I won’t ever set foot in Las Vegas again. Even if it’s not for gambling, because the whole place is set up for people to gamble. I chase losses. I cannot gamble, even a nickel. Not ever again. Saying “no” up front to the path of temptation is much better than regretting why I fell.
Thank you for sharing your story. I too managed to be a Christian alcoholic for decades. I even worked as a reference librarian at a Christian college and was sloshed or hungover most of the time. I will certainly seek out your books and I look forward to the one you are writing now. This is a story that needs to be told. I think so many Christians struggle with addiction. We know it's wrong but we're successful at covering it up or at least think we are. I really do feel transparency is such a help to others who are still struggling. Thank you for your honesty.
"We know it's wrong but we're successful at covering it up or at least think we are." Great point, Lorraine! So glad you found freedom as well. Thanks for being here.
I haven’t finished reading but I had to comment to say thank you. Just thank you for being real about messy sanctification. I can definitely identify with that.
I’ve been pondering a lot about community and have a started writing about looking at community as being in a community of recovery, joining hands with people from that lens rather than trying to find the most perfect people to hang around.
In reality, NONE of us are perfect. If we could only embrace that as Christians rather than pointing out the logs in the eyes of others. Oh how the world would change!!!
“knowing the truth, but not being able to live it out” - those are my words, too. I ran away from my problematic drinking for years. Telling myself I had it under control. Because for sometime I did. Until I didn’t. That threshold - crossing over to addiction, was a territory I was afraid to admit I occupied. But we are never alone in it. Once we open up and share our truths.
Your words and your book is going to save so many. And help so many feel seen. Thank you 🙏🏼
Right?! It's incredible to look back now and see the slow fade, as well as the lies I told myself for years. Thanks for the support, Allison. Love what you do as well!
It's hard to imagine you would get backlash and judgement for sharing your story but reality tells me that unfortunately, legalism is still out there. You are likely going to receive some negative comments and feedback from your share.
I, on the other hand, find much encouragement from your transparency. It's rare. Christians hide things. I hide things. What can and will God do through your vulnerability? One will see.... but maybe it'll cause others who are struggling and hiding things, to be brave. And that bravery comes from a place of trusting God with the outcome. Your testimony is certainly one of trust. I truly appreciate you sharing and pray against any discouragement that may come your way.
Absolutely brave. Absolutely powerful. I look forward to reading your upcoming book and following along on your journey. Thank you for being real and sharing this struggle… I know it will help others.
There is one of those great aphorisms in the programs of recovery 'We are only as sick as our secrets.' In my life that has be proven true over and over again. There is a gift in being vulnerable and open. I pray that you continue to find it true in your life.
Thank you for coming into the light. You are a blessing. Sanctification is messy and we are in good company with that: just look at Peter. It proves that the light in us is Christ's and that light cannot ever be extinguished.
You remind me again of what I never noticed till recently- that the girl Peter first denies Christ to recognizes him as a follower of Christ because of the light shining on him. Peter struggled with that light shining on him, but just because we struggle, doesn't make that light go out. In fact, as the verse a stranger once pressed into my hands says:
Proverbs 4:18
But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.
My sanctification has included a 20+ year Prodigal journey and the 10 years since coming home out of the thorn bush of my accuser a long road of healing from abuse that has looked anything but neat and tidy. And yet in that messiness and my very open repentance I have watched Jesus bringing others home to Him, as they have recognized God's love for them through His love for me. You will be such a blessing to so many.
May God bless you and your family too, as He continues to prove Himself and His perfecting power in and through you.
This line is such a blessing: “And yet in that messiness and my very open repentance I have watched Jesus bringing others home to Him, as they have recognized God's love for them through His love for me.”
I love what you said about messy sanctification. I too have been frustrated with how the Christian community hides and shames when real people are battling real issues. In 2010, I had an affair. My husband and I went thru an incredibly difficult time before, during and after that season and thru Gods mercy we just celebrated 20 years of marriage. But this is a part of my story I don’t share with most and if I really think about it, it’s probably because of the judgement I received from my Christian brothers and sisters. People are quick to assume when they have no idea what’s really going on.
Anyway, it’s brave to be open about our struggles and even downfalls sometimes, especially when we can point them back to the redemptive work God has done in our lives. Pride tells us “I would never do that” but learning what we are capable of offers a level of humility that is life changing.
Dang, thanks for sharing that Danielle! I'm actually working with a woman right now to tell her own story of infidelity and redemption. God can redeem anything!
In a culture where Christian leaders are only “coming clean” when their sin is revealed against their will, I am SO refreshed by your openness to share your humanity precisely because God asked you to. It’s beautiful how God’s version of obedience actually unlocks our chains. There is so much freedom, won by Christ for us, in doing what you just did. Well done, Jon. Bless you.
The simultaneous freedom as well as fear is mind-boggling. Thanks, Christina.
Beyond excited for you, Jon. Take a deep breath and know that your honesty and vulnerability is opening up doors for others to walk through.
Your support has meant the WORLD to me, Caroline!
Dear Jon
Thank you so much for sharing and being vulnerable and leaning on those that support you as well as the Lord who will support you during these times. I wanted to let you know about a Christ centered 12 step program that I attend - Celebrate Recovery - there are meetings everywhere! I encourage you to seek them out and start meeting your new forever family! God bless!
- Bill
Amen to Celebrate Recovery. I wasn't drinking for a couple of years but there was absolutely no joy in my life until a Celebrate recovery group started near me. Now I really do Celebrate recovery not just not drink.
Hallelujah, Lorraine! I love that Celebrate Recovery is for ANY "hurt, habit, or hang-up"! Alcohol, drugs, porn, codependency, eating disorders, control issues, anger issues, anything and everything is possible with the support of our Lord and others!
Thanks, Bill. I have heard about Celebrate Recovery, and appreciate you reminding me. I'll be talking soon about my own path, and can't wait to share it.
Thanks for sharing Jon! You’re part of a pretty big group. I’ve got 20+ years. When some of us get together my friend likes to say, “The person here with the most sobriety is the one who got up first.” Grateful for what God is doing in you.
Jon,
I knew there was a reason I felt led to subscribe and support your Substack. You are still my only paid subscription.
I don’t understand the pain of alcohol addiction, but I certainly understand God calling us out into deep waters, the temptation to say No and then the fear, trepidation and vulnerability, as well as the power, calling and blessings of saying “yes”.
I’m praying for you and lifting you up, brother. Thank you for saying Yes to God’s calling on your life. Thank you for refusing to hide in fear and hypocrisy. Today you step out of the boat onto the raging sea. Keep your eyes always and only on Jesus, who says to you, “Come”. Do not get distracted by the waves of people’s advice, opinions and feedback. You are following Jesus into deep waters, and he will always be there to sustain you, to encourage you, and to pull you out when you get distracted and start to sink.
Lifting you up in prayer, my brother, today especially. I’m honored to walk this faith road with brothers and sisters who endorse and express and share this life of “messy spirituality” with me. You are my people. Sending you so much love.
Well, you got me all teared up. I am so humbled by your support, Heather. Thank you.
Here's my take on 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 https://sunflowerchristiancoaching.substack.com/p/brag-postbut-its-not-what-you-think
2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Yes this. It’s why I won’t ever set foot in Las Vegas again. Even if it’s not for gambling, because the whole place is set up for people to gamble. I chase losses. I cannot gamble, even a nickel. Not ever again. Saying “no” up front to the path of temptation is much better than regretting why I fell.
Steve, I had no idea! But I guess that's part of the lesson: we just don't know. Thanks for your words and transparency.
This is powerful. You are such a light in this world, Jon! Such a privilege being connected through Substack!
Same, Devon!
Thank you for sharing your story. I too managed to be a Christian alcoholic for decades. I even worked as a reference librarian at a Christian college and was sloshed or hungover most of the time. I will certainly seek out your books and I look forward to the one you are writing now. This is a story that needs to be told. I think so many Christians struggle with addiction. We know it's wrong but we're successful at covering it up or at least think we are. I really do feel transparency is such a help to others who are still struggling. Thank you for your honesty.
"We know it's wrong but we're successful at covering it up or at least think we are." Great point, Lorraine! So glad you found freedom as well. Thanks for being here.
I haven’t finished reading but I had to comment to say thank you. Just thank you for being real about messy sanctification. I can definitely identify with that.
I’ve been pondering a lot about community and have a started writing about looking at community as being in a community of recovery, joining hands with people from that lens rather than trying to find the most perfect people to hang around.
In reality, NONE of us are perfect. If we could only embrace that as Christians rather than pointing out the logs in the eyes of others. Oh how the world would change!!!
Again, thank you. 😌
Can't wait to read what you put out there, Iviana!
Thank you! On Sunday I’ll be releasing the intro. 😳😅😁
Jon - this share moved me deeply.
“knowing the truth, but not being able to live it out” - those are my words, too. I ran away from my problematic drinking for years. Telling myself I had it under control. Because for sometime I did. Until I didn’t. That threshold - crossing over to addiction, was a territory I was afraid to admit I occupied. But we are never alone in it. Once we open up and share our truths.
Your words and your book is going to save so many. And help so many feel seen. Thank you 🙏🏼
Right?! It's incredible to look back now and see the slow fade, as well as the lies I told myself for years. Thanks for the support, Allison. Love what you do as well!
It's hard to imagine you would get backlash and judgement for sharing your story but reality tells me that unfortunately, legalism is still out there. You are likely going to receive some negative comments and feedback from your share.
I, on the other hand, find much encouragement from your transparency. It's rare. Christians hide things. I hide things. What can and will God do through your vulnerability? One will see.... but maybe it'll cause others who are struggling and hiding things, to be brave. And that bravery comes from a place of trusting God with the outcome. Your testimony is certainly one of trust. I truly appreciate you sharing and pray against any discouragement that may come your way.
I really appreciate you, Marsha.
The Truth has set You free!!!!!! YAY!!! All glory and praise to our all powerful almighty GOD!!!!!!
Amen, Kitha!
Absolutely brave. Absolutely powerful. I look forward to reading your upcoming book and following along on your journey. Thank you for being real and sharing this struggle… I know it will help others.
Honored to have you as part of this journey now too, Kimber.
There is one of those great aphorisms in the programs of recovery 'We are only as sick as our secrets.' In my life that has be proven true over and over again. There is a gift in being vulnerable and open. I pray that you continue to find it true in your life.
Thank you for coming into the light. You are a blessing. Sanctification is messy and we are in good company with that: just look at Peter. It proves that the light in us is Christ's and that light cannot ever be extinguished.
You remind me again of what I never noticed till recently- that the girl Peter first denies Christ to recognizes him as a follower of Christ because of the light shining on him. Peter struggled with that light shining on him, but just because we struggle, doesn't make that light go out. In fact, as the verse a stranger once pressed into my hands says:
Proverbs 4:18
But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.
My sanctification has included a 20+ year Prodigal journey and the 10 years since coming home out of the thorn bush of my accuser a long road of healing from abuse that has looked anything but neat and tidy. And yet in that messiness and my very open repentance I have watched Jesus bringing others home to Him, as they have recognized God's love for them through His love for me. You will be such a blessing to so many.
May God bless you and your family too, as He continues to prove Himself and His perfecting power in and through you.
This line is such a blessing: “And yet in that messiness and my very open repentance I have watched Jesus bringing others home to Him, as they have recognized God's love for them through His love for me.”