b'transformation to a life lived following Jesus andconfident decisions and evaluate the outcomes His teachings. We not only realize the hope inof their choices. Their belief in the ability to this present life, but eternally as well. In fact, thissucceed in the future must outweigh the doubt-life cannot compare to the hope Jesus is prepar- filled thoughts of their past.ing for us (Romans 8:18, John 14:13).The biblical response: As we have described throughout this article, the radical changes made FutureHow will I live a sustainable life?in the life of someone who has accepted Christ A ligned with hope, we must address theas Lord is only the beginning. As people grow long-term ability to live a healthy, every- and develop with Christ, He brings the resources, day life. Emotional wellness refocusesskills, and relationships needed to help people our perspective toward long-lasting physical,flourish (Philippians 1:6). This does not mean social, and mental health. We would add thatthe individual has no responsibility. In fact, Jesus emotional wellness comes from focusing on ourrequires us to live in holiness (Matthew 6:33), spiritual health. To equip individuals with toolsand the Bible is filled with passages on the char-to create a sustainable life of sobriety, we mustacteristics and growth development of those include practical, developmental training andserving Jesus Christ. In this development, people learning along with peer counseling and long- begin to believe in their future. They see Jesusterm community engagement. Were suggestingat work in their lives and trust that He is able to more than teaching skills for vocational work,care for them, encourage them, and lead them more than cognitive behavioral training. Itsthroughout their lives. Their future is secure teaching individuals with A/SUD how to believebecause of Christ, and that brings peace that in their future. Its teaching individuals howpasses all understanding of the human mind to judge their intrinsic motivations to make(Philippians 4:7). \x02 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG 15'