Category: With Audio

And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: “The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life.” Revelations 2:8 While first interviewing those struggling with addiction, I always ask how it started. When inquiring about the addict’s childhood, I often hear horrific stories of neglect and abuse. Growing…
Read more

To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7 Every day, when I wake up, I thank God for recovery and redemption. It hasn’t always been this way though. In 2014, when I lost my job due to my opioid…
Read more

Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Revelations 2:5 I must confess that I find myself being quite judgmental on occasion. Recently, I was explaining to my wife my feelings towards a mutual acquaintance when realized that I felt that this person was irredeemable. She kindly…
Read more

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Revelations 2:4-5 It’s not entirely fair to make blanket statements, but different physician specialties are known for their different personalities. For instance, I’d…
Read more

I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. Revelations 2:2 Inpatient treatment and sober housing facilities are designed to be places set apart for those struggling…
Read more

I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. Revelation 2:2 (NIV) We recently began a weight loss challenge at our gym. A few of us could benefit from losing 10 or 20 pounds and so, we’re supposed to be keeping each other accountable with a chart on the whiteboard. This inspired me and…
Read more

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one.” Revelation 1:17-18 Working in addiction medicine, it’s not uncommon to meet those who rebel against all authority – those who seem…
Read more

Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me . . . When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Revelation 1:12-17 In residency, I worked at three different hospitals, back in the days when we had to sign actual paper orders with an actual pen. I could…
Read more

I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. Revelation 1:9 I may not like it, but it’s been my life experience that I grow the…
Read more

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8 In my drug addiction, I engaged in what was potentially career-ending behavior. My career didn’t end though. I did have to be out of work for several months as I…
Read more