We acknowledge the source (GOD) of the power to exercise mastery over sin and ask all new members to memorize Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."
Mastery over sin involves the use of self-control, a fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:23) and a component of spiritual maturity (2 Peter 1:2-9). By integrating mature (and growing) Christians who have "mastered" (conquered, overcome, etc.) the sin of drunkenness into the group we not only offer examples of God's power in action, but are also able to provide positive guidance to those seeking to develop their self control and subsequent mastery over sin. Furthermore, we avoid the pitfall of "the blind leading the blind" (Matthew 15:14).
Within our group we have those who have gained mastery over alcohol and a variety of controlled/illegal substances. We build upon success.
A fundamental Christian obligation is for the strong to bear the burdens of the weak (Romans 15:1; Galatians 6:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:14). Those who have kept their faith and their families together while their spouse has engaged in alcohol and/or substance abuse are empowered to provide support to those currently struggling with these issues (see Hebrews 10:24, 12:11-15). Especially helpful are those who persevered while the spouse gained mastery over the sin. In other words, we incorporate those who have "weathered the storm" and are in a position to "give back" and serve.
As with alcohol and substance abuse we do not consider as permanent the effects of having close family members who engage in these sins. Therefore, we speak of "weathering the storm" during the often tumultuous struggles with this particular sin and point to those who overcame and received "the peaceful fruit of righteousness" (Hebrews 12:11) to serve as examples for us.
Since we are commanded to become involved with each other we will,at times, of necessity, give advice in both groups (1 Thessalonians 5:6-11; Hebrews 3:13, etc.). Our advice does not take the form of "preaching," but rather involves sharing what may have worked for one of us, warnings relative to not making the same mistakes we made, offers of help/support, etc. Our motivation is love, not a desire to control ("... speaking the truth in love ..." Ephesians 4:15) with a focus upon the positive/constructive ("... only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear." Ephesians 4:29).
By this time one may correctly infer that the Bible is our guide. Our belief is that the Bible is inspired by God and is solely sufficient for all our needs (2 Timothy 3:16-17). While we may not like what it says, the Bible holds the answers to all our questions and the solutions to all our problems.