Posts by donmiddleton
Naaman the Leper and Addiction Recovery
What does the story of Naaman teach about addiction recovery?
The story of Naaman the Leper in 2 Kings 5 shows that healing begins with humility and surrender. Like many people struggling with addiction..
Read MoreHow Churches Can Provide “A Way Out” of Addiction
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”— 1 Corinthians 10:13 Few challenges facing today’s churches are as…
Read MoreDunamis: What Does It Really Mean?
Pronounced “doo’-nam-is,” the Greek word Dunamis means miraculous power, might, or strength. It’s used more than 100 times in the New Testament, often describing the divine power of God working through Jesus Christ and His followers (see Acts 1:8). However, Dunamis carries a deeper meaning than just “power.” It represents potential power—energy waiting to be…
Read MoreTransform the Mind to Transform the Life
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking at the national conference for the Christian Medical Dental Association (CMDA) on how to support people going through 12-step recovery for addictions of all kinds. It was great to be at a conference where 1200 professionals could proudly bow their heads and give thanks to their savior, Christ…
Read MoreHow should we define addiction in layman’s terms?
What does addiction really mean? The word “addiction” used to be whispered in hushed tones, wrapped in shame, but it has steadily worked its way into our everyday vocabulary. It’s not even always used negatively anymore—someone might casually say, “I’m addicted to that new sushi restaurant.” We’ll explore the reasons behind this shift and what…
Read MoreThe Dunamis Initiative & CMDA
Pictured above is Dr. Don Middleton with Dr. Mike Chubb, CEO of CMDA We’re excited to share a recent development as we continue to bring The Dunamis Initiative to churches and Christian organizations all over the world. I (Don) am incredibly honored and humbled to have been given the opportunity to serve as Chair of…
Read MoreWhy Does Someone Use In The First Place?
It’s a question that gets asked often—sometimes with curiosity, but often with confusion or frustration: Why would someone start using in the first place? At first glance, it may seem like a simple issue of choice. But the reality is far more complex. Most people don’t begin using substances or engaging in harmful behaviors because…
Read MoreIs Someone on Suboxone Really Sober?
As children, we knew a song about an old woman who swallowed a fly. She then swallowed a spider to catch the fly, a bird to catch the spider, and so on until she swallowed a horse and died – of course. This nonsensical song is a reminder that sometimes we mistakenly get caught in…
Read MoreHi, I’m Don, and I Am a…
I’m Don, and I Am… Sometimes I just can’t help myself. I love to stir the pot with a bit of mischief. I know, I know – it’s a character flaw that I am working on. Sort of. Okay, not really. I found in AA meetings that a way to ruffle feathers is to not…
Read MoreHow Do We Build Spiritual Core Strength?
We’re all creatures of habit, and regardless of the setting, we tend to gravitate towards the same seats. Although I didn’t know Carlos well, he always occupied the chair next to mine during our morning meetings. Hence, I couldn’t help but notice when he seemed to be experiencing back problems; he got up tenderly and…
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