The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction

by Donavon Riley, Chad Bird (foreword)

"The Impossible Prize" is a lantern in the darkness, casting light on the theological underpinnings of addiction and recovery. In this book, the reader will confront the raw truth, that the struggle against addiction is not merely a battle of willpower or a psychological chess match; it's a spiritual warfare, a clash between the forces of hopelessness and the redemptive grace of a higher power. The Impossible Prize, therefore, invites readers into a profound dialogue with their own vulnerabilities, urging them to relinquish the futile pursuit of self-made solutions and instead turn their gaze toward the divine.

Genres: Addiction, Theology, Counselling

128 pages, Paperback

Published March 11, 2025

Reviews

[Chris Collier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riley is really good at helping us see with compassion and hope. His emphasis on the free gift of mercy and forgiveness from God, no matter the depth of our sin, is life giving. His reminder that for the addict, recovery is not a finish line, but an unceasing acknowledgment of our dependence on the sustaining grace of God, allows us to see the future with realistic eyes and hope. Whether you be a drug or alcohol addict or not, this is the truth of the gospel.

I only gave it 4 instead of 5, because it’s a bit repetitive. Felt like there was a goal that a book has to be at least 100 pages, but this could have been a 50 page book. Don’t let that stop you from reading it though. Sometimes a summary slightly different from the original statement can open up understanding in a fresh way.

[Rachel Oberlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dry, But Interesting

Sometimes I find that certain books can go over my head when they start getting technical. For the first couple chapters, that was what it felt like while reading this book. I would stop after reading a chapter and try to think about what I just read. It kinda worked. For the last couple chapters, I just powered through, so we'll see how that goes. Right now, I can say it gave me food for thought and brought something back that my pastor wrote about. A walking partner to help with addiction? I don't know. I may find useful if I need to speak with someone about their addiction though.

[Eric Estes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a helpful theological framework for recovering addicts, but it is not only for those fighting substance abuse. Any Christian will recognize the comfort and hope the gospel gives in the midst of the fleshly struggles common to all sinners. Riley will encourage you to rely daily on Christ's finished work of salvation and His boundless love and mercy extended to you even as you struggle against whatever temptations may afflict you.

[Anthony Giordano · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good reminder of God’s grace and work in recovery programs. It touched on the sacraments and I think more reflection, particularly about Communion, was needed. For those of us in the rooms, it is a clear message of grace and hope.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was great. Addiction is a huge problem in the world. Applying a theological framework and practical advice is the only way to treat it.