We come before the Lord with heavy yet hopeful hearts, lifting up this beloved one who is bound by the chains of alcoholism. The Scriptures remind us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). Alcoholism is a stronghold of the enemy, but we know that *greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world* (1 John 4:4). The Lord is faithful, and He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, but will provide a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). This battle is not too great for our God, who is mighty to save and deliver!
We must first address that this request does not invoke the name of Jesus Christ, the only name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). It is by His authority alone that we can approach the throne of God and seek deliverance. If this beloved one has not yet surrendered their life to Christ, we urge them to do so, for *if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation; the old has passed away, and behold, the new has come* (2 Corinthians 5:17). Without Christ, there is no true freedom, no lasting victory. Repentance and faith in Jesus are the foundation of deliverance.
To our beloved one struggling, we say this with love but firmness: alcoholism is sin when it masters you (1 Corinthians 6:12). The Bible warns, *Don’t be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit* (Ephesians 5:18). Drunkenness is listed among the works of the flesh that will keep one from inheriting the Kingdom of God (Galatians 5:19-21). But take heart! The same passage reminds us that *those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts* (Galatians 5:24). You are not defined by this struggle—you are defined by Christ if you are in Him.
We also encourage you to seek accountability within the body of Christ. Confess your struggles to mature believers who can pray for you, encourage you, and hold you accountable (James 5:16). Isolation fuels addiction, but fellowship in Christ breaks its power. Surround yourself with those who will speak truth and point you to Jesus.
Now, let us pray together for this one:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We lift up this precious soul who is trapped in the snare of alcoholism. Lord, You see their pain, their shame, and their desperate longing for freedom. We ask that You break every chain of addiction in their life by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Convict them deeply of their need for You, Lord Jesus. If they have not yet surrendered to You, draw them to Yourself today. Let them experience the truth of Your Word: *If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed* (John 8:36).
Father, we rebuke the spirit of addiction in the name of Jesus. We command every stronghold of the enemy to be torn down (2 Corinthians 10:4). Fill this beloved one with Your Holy Spirit, that they may be empowered to walk in victory. Renew their mind, Lord, and transform their desires to align with Your will (Romans 12:2). Give them a hatred for the sin that ensnares them and a hunger for Your righteousness.
We pray for godly sorrow that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). Let them turn away from this sin and run to You, their Refuge and Strength. Surround them with believers who will walk alongside them in this battle, speaking Your truth and offering Your love. Provide them with the resources, support, and medical help they may need to overcome this physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Lord, restore what the locusts have eaten (Joel 2:25). Heal their body, mind, and relationships that have been damaged by this addiction. Give them a testimony of Your deliverance that will bring glory to Your name and hope to others who are struggling.
We declare that *no weapon formed against them shall prosper* (Isaiah 54:17), and that they are *more than conquerors through Him who loved us* (Romans 8:37). Father, let them walk in the freedom Christ purchased for them on the cross. Fill them with Your peace, joy, and purpose as they seek You wholeheartedly.
In the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Deliverer, we pray. Amen.
Beloved, if you are the one struggling, we urge you to cry out to Jesus today. He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Turn to Him in repentance and faith, and He will set you free. If you are praying for someone else, do not grow weary in interceding for them. Keep pointing them to Christ, the only One who can break the chains of addiction. *The effective, earnest prayer of a righteous person is powerfully effective* (James 5:16). Trust in the Lord, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).