Can I struggle with addiction and still be considered a born again Christian?

I accepted Christ about 9 years ago. I backslid for a few years but God was always there with me, protected me from a lot of things, and waited for me to come back to Him. But I did get into drugs. I found my way back to Him finally and got back into my church; I have that hunger to learn more and share my love for Him and what He’s done for me. But I still struggle with my addiction and fall back sometimes, and whenever I do I open my bible and read. 

But I feel guilty when I do. And I am scared that I continue to fall and that I might not be the believer that I thought I was because I continue to fall. I know that as a believer that we’re still tempted. I’m not tempted by a lot of things that I used to, but this one thing I just seem not to be able to shake. Please someone help me understand why and/or how I can over come this because I want to honor Him and become a Christlike example without feeling so guilty.

John 3:16

ESV - ¹⁶ For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked August 24 2020 • Anonymous