Dr. Floyd Godfrey

The Importance of Facing Addiction

Sexual addiction, including pornography, is a significant struggle for many people today, with profound effects on individuals, marriages, and even communities. In the church, pastors and ministry leaders may find themselves counseling people whose lives are deeply affected by this issue. This article sheds light on the journey to recovery, inspired by the powerful story of Matt Fradd. Matt’s journey shows how healing is possible, even from rock bottom, through grace, determination, and a shift in perspective aligned with God’s purpose for relationships.

Hitting Rock Bottom

Matt Fradd’s journey began in a place of brokenness, consumed by a perspective that reduced others to mere objects. Reflecting on his past, Matt said, “So, I too, didn’t really consider women as persons; they were commodities to be consumed. They existed to please me, to meet my needs” (Fradd, 2013, p. 23). This distorted view led him to a painful spiral, affecting his career, relationships, and his very sense of self-worth. He soon found himself at rock bottom, recalling, “My world was crashing down around me. I had lost my job; I was losing my house, and now my marriage too. I had nothing left, nowhere to turn, and nothing to hope for” (Fradd, 2013, p. 28).

For Matt, this low point served as a wake-up call, igniting a desire for transformation. Often, it is in these darkest moments that individuals begin to recognize their need for change. Ministry leaders can draw from this, understanding that moments of despair can be windows to God’s transformative grace.

Recognizing the Value of Every Person

One of the key shifts for Matt came through realizing the inherent dignity of others. The idea that people—especially women—were created in the image and likeness of God was both enlightening and challenging for him. “The idea that women were not objects to be consumed but were made in the image and likeness of God, to be truly loved and cherished, confused and mystified me,” Matt said, adding that this realization redefined his perspective on relationships and marriage (Fradd, 2013, p. 29).

As Christians, we affirm the Biblical truth that each person bears the image of God (Genesis 1:27). When we see others through this lens, it becomes clear that relationships are not meant for selfish gain, but for mutual respect, service, and love. In counseling those struggling with sexual addiction, pastors can emphasize that true intimacy is about connection and compassion, rather than consumption.

Choosing Restoration

Matt’s journey took a courageous turn as he chose to rebuild, even in the face of uncertainty. He knew his marriage was “worth saving, worth working for—yes, even worth suffering for” (Fradd, 2013, p. 29). Overcoming addiction is rarely simple, but Matt’s story demonstrates that with the support of others, sincere repentance, and a willingness to change, healing is achievable.

For Christians, restoration involves both personal commitment and spiritual transformation. Galatians 5:1 reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” This freedom is possible through faith, accountability, and sometimes professional support. Pastors and counselors can guide individuals on this path, helping them rebuild not only their relationships but their sense of purpose and identity in Christ.

Encouragement for the Journey

Matt’s journey of recovery shows that even from the darkest struggles, God’s grace can bring about profound transformation. Today, he uses his story to encourage others, showing that while the road to healing may be difficult, it is worthwhile. For those facing sexual addiction, Matt’s life offers a message of hope: no one is beyond God’s redemptive love.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.

Reference:
Fradd, M. (2013). Delivered - True Stories of Men and Women Who Turned From Porn to Purity. Catholic Answers Press.