Look in the Mirror

How many times do we look in mirror each day? suppose we looked in the mirror and found our face was fithy dirty. wouldn't we immediately clean it? We need to routinely inspect our lives in in the spiritual mirror 'The Bible' Then if anything is wrong take the proper steps to clean it up.

Get rid of all immoral behavior and all the wicked things you do. Humbly accept the word that God has placed in you. This word can save you.Do what God’s word says. Don’t merely listen to it, or you will fool yourselves. If someone listens to God’s word but doesn’t do what it says, he is like a person who looks at his face in a mirror, studies his features, goes away, and immediately forgets what he looks like. However, the person who continues to study God’s perfect teachings that make people free and who remains committed to them will be blessed. People like that don’t merely listen and forget; they actually do what God’s teachings say.James 1:21-25

Step Twelve

Having gone through these steps and discovering the importance of individual relationship with God, through Jesus I will try to live according to His principles and to lead others to know Him.

On completion of Steps 1 to 11 we are in a special position to be able to testify to others of what God has done for us. When touching on sensitive issues it is important to speak in love not condemnation, understanding not aggression.

We are not the Saviour people need but we are His witnesses.

Love does not point out their problem, it offers a solution .

We can support others as they go through the twelve steps and become ready to let God be Master of their lives.

Step Eleven

In order to discover God’s purpose for my life, implement it and to improve my relationship with Him I will spend time daily in prayer, reading the Bible, meditating on it.

None of us want to spend time reading the instructions. But that is what is required to understand God's will for our lives. The Bible is full of inspirational ways of doing things God's way. We however do not always understand it and that is why we need to go to God daily. He is our spiritual growth teacher. God doesn't ask us to just accept blindly what the Bible says but to think about what we are going to implement, weigh up the costs and consequences. Try it and apply it.

Step Ten

Now that I am in the process of change I will check myself daily to make sure I am not slipping back into my old ways and if I am I will take steps to rectify it.

To confess means to agree with God when He declares wrong is wrong. This means we need to recogise wrong as it occurs and confess it daily. Each time we do it is washed away, cleansed by Him. Some areas need more cleaning than others. God knows this and understands recovery is a process in which we advance daily. God wants us to have daily communication with Him.

Step Nine

Having identified the people I have harmed I will now go and make restitution to them. Unless to do so is going to cause them or others pain or suffering.

We spent so long in addiction apologizing, swearing we would never do it again. The people we have hurt, those closest to us are sick of hearing. This step demands action. Doing something we wouldn't normally do. Not just saying sorry but putting in the effort to make restitution and ensure we do not repeat our previous efforts.

Step Eight

As part of the process of change I will identify and record everyone I have harmed and through prayer become willing to make restitution to them.

The recovery process give us a new nature. Before we came to recovery our nature was selfish and rebellious. We ignored God.

However, now we are on recovery we need to look at our actions and there consequences. We need to identify people we have harmed and become willing to put right the wrongs we have caused. Rebuilding relationships on the right footing is required for successful recovery.

Step Seven

Through acknowledgement of God’s supreme power I humbly ask Him to help me change my sinful habits and attitudes.

After examining our past we may feel cut off from God. Considering our attitudes and actions may make us feel unworthy. We may struggle with self-hatred. Remorse may cause us to wonder 'how can I ask God for help?'

The reality is God welcomes us even when we feel this way. In Luke 18 it says the proud will be humbled and the humble will be honoured.

It is the humbling of our heart that opens the way to God's forgiveness.

Step Six

After discovering my sinful habits and attitudes and confessing them I am now willing to let God change me.

God can help us change if we keep an open mind and heart. When we are ready to give up hope on ourselves or others, believing a change of habit or attitude impossible we need to remember God can work a complete change in us if we are willing to let Him.

Step Five

On completion of my list of sinful habits I will confess them to God and to someone that I trust.

As we make a list of our sinful behaviours and habits it's like sifting through the garbage of our past. It will be painful, but it is a necessary part of change. Left unidentified they will spoil the rest of our lives.

On identifying them we can take out the garbage. We can take responsibility for our poor choices and actions.We can take it to God, share it with someone we trust and turn our lives in a new direction. God's direction.

Step Four

In order to help me change I will investigate and record with God’s help my sinful habits and attitudes.

The purpose of recovery is changed life. Living differently than we have in the past. Removing sinful habits and attitudes that have led us to and kept us trapped in addiction and compulsion.

Before we can change them we need to identify them. Recording them helps us to recognise and accept them.

When we do accept them it can be down heartening, that is why we need God's help in this step. It is the beginning of the process of moving towards becoming the person God designed us to be.

Step Three

I am making a decision to let God help me change and commit to working with Him to do so.

As we commit our life to giving God authority to change us as He sees fit we will come across obstacles. The Good News is God promises to be with us always. Not only going with us but going ahead of is preparing the way for our new life in Him

Accountability and honesty are necessary in the recovery process. As we take this step daily commitment to transforming our lives become the norm. We know where we have been. We know where we are now. This step is about consciously deciding where we are going to spend eternity.

Step Two

Belief in God is a process. It is the result of considering God, reasoning on His existence and coming to a conclusion. It involves emotion and logic, which leads to action.

We begin with our own experience. Which for most of us is easy to accept 'it didn't work'. Realisaton that we cannot stop on our own then sets in. We then take time to consider God and if we listen closely enough, look at the world around us come to the conclusions 'there is a God' and 'He cares about me'.

As we then consider this reality and His Majesty we realise 'with the power God possesses He is more than able to help me recover'

2. I believe that God exists, that He cares about me and He can help me to regain control of my life.

Step One

I admit that my life is a mess and I am out of control.

Admitting life is out of control and messy is easy for most of us when we come to recovery. It is easy to look at the results of our addictions and compulsions and accept we have allowed our drink, drug etc become the driving force of our lives.

Accepting this however is easier for most of us than accepting we need to take steps to change.

Jesus came to release those who are bound by addiction and compulsion and to help us gain self-control enough to make a choice to do something about our situation and circumstances.

1 Corinthians 6:12 I can do anything I want to if God has not said no, but some things aren't good for me. Even if I am allowed to do them. I'll refuse them if I think they might get such a grip on me I can't stop them when I want to.

Make a choice today to refuse the things that have you captive and trust God to help you discover how to live a sober, serene life.

God Worthy

Psalms 8:3-4 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?

We have great worth because we bear the stamp of the Creator. Because God had already declared go valuable we are to Him we can be set free from feelings of worthlessness.

Enduring Pain

2 Corinthians 7:9 I am glad I sent it, not because it hurt you, but because the pain caused you to repent and change your ways. It was the kind of sorrow God wants his people to have.

Sometimes pain is necessary to het our attention. Many people do not respond to Biblical truths until they experience personal pain. Are you willing to listen to God for truth's sake? If so He promises He will never give us more pain than we are able to endure and as a result of enduring it we will grow spiritually.

Go where God wants you to ...

Romans 15:20 My ambition has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard, rather than where a church has already been started by someone else.

Step 12 and (Acts 1:8) tell us it is important to share our experience of God with others and each other . All of us, coming from where we do have access to groups of people the Church doesn't. Family, friends, acquaintances. People God wants us to reach out to. Introduce to the reality of what life with Him can be.
Now is the time to step up, standout and be counted.

Today!

It is common practice in retail outlets for employees to say 'have a nice day' Wishing won't make it so. Our best plans often go wrong. The way to live our lives is one day at a time.

To have a day-by-day philosophy is helpful. None of us can guarantee what tomorrow will bring. To know and to live God's principles of faith, love and hope is to have a strong foundation when crisis or surprise occur. People of God experience a child-like trust in Him which nothing can destroy.

Proverbs 27:1 Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring.

Sticks and Stones

I remember growing up the saying 'sticks and stones can break my bones but names can never hurt me'

What do people call you? Sometimes we are tagged with the wrong name. Not just nicknames but names that we accrue as a result of living wrongly as a result of our addictions and compulsions. Jail-bird, liar, no-hoper, thief, drunk, junkie etc. As these names spread among our associates they can be very damaging. They can become impossible to get rid of, requiring time, a change of attitude and actions.

Positioning ourselves under the name of Jesus is a way to change others perception of us. Learning about, listening to Him and becoming more like Him ensures the names we acquire are names that truly reflect who we are and not what we do.

Philippians 2:9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names,

Not everyone makes it!

Ezra 9:8 “now we have been given a brief moment of grace, for the Lord our God has allowed a few of us to survive as a remnant. He has given us security in this holy place. Our God has brightened our eyes and granted us some relief from our slavery.

Recovery is hard work! None of us find it easy I'm early recovery to completely change our lives. Give up everything we have grown comfortable with. God gives us moments of relief. Times when we see and feel the benefit of living honestly and chemically free. As we advance in recovery life becomes brighter and we value our relationships with God and with others.

But we need to work intentionally at growing in faith on a daily basis.

Grey Areas

The battle of midway is fought repeatedly. The grey areas of life seem attractive to thousands of people, preferring indecision and fence sitting. Telling lies and then justifying them. It is hard to understand the attraction of grey areas but they do exist with dangerously creative power.

One of the blessings of recovery is the power to make up our mind. Grey power may try to kid us to only skim the surface. But, if we are to truly live as God wants we need to 'Choose today' complete surrender to seeking and carrying out His will.

God's commandments to us are clear, no grey areas.

Joshua 24:15 choose today whom you will serve. As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. ”

Trust the work that Christ has done!

But Christ came as a chief priest of the good things that are now here. Christ went through a better, more perfect tent that was not made by human hands and that is not part of this created world. He used his own blood, not the blood of goats and bulls, for the sacrifice. He went into the most holy place and offered this sacrifice once and for all to free us forever.Hebrews 9:11-12

Trusting the work that Christ did is the only way to have complete forgiveness, a clear conscience and eternal life. When we put our faith in Him we are free to know and serve God.

A mission from God.

John 20:21 “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you. ”

The disciples did not have the power to forgive sins (only God forgives sins) but Jesus gave them the privilege of telling others that their sins have been forgiven through acceptance of His message.

We to have the privilege of telling others of our lives being transformed through acceptance of His message and application of the principles of recovery in our lives.

Good parental role models

Proverbs 1:8 listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction.

On Wednesday night all family members other than my daughter and I were out. As we sat together she asked me 'dad can I come sit on your knee?' I asked her why she wanted to sit on my knee? To which she answered "does a girl need a reason to want to sit on her Dad's knee?"

Not the answer I was expecting but one that was most appropriate. As I thought of it later I realized at least for one of my three children I was fulfilling my role as a father. Someone who loved her unconditionally to whom she could come to, sit on my knee and feel comfortable and safe in the arms of her father.

We all need father figures, for many of us they were not a reality as grew up. The 'Good News' for us all in recovery is we all have a heavenly Father who loves us to whom we can go when we feel scared, uncertain, in unfamiliar territory and ask Him 'Dad can I sit on your knee' and unlike me' with my daughter on Wednesday He won't ask us why He will simply say to us COME!

Life or death? You decide!

We have been born into a new life which has an inheritance that can’t be destroyed or corrupted and can’t fade away. That inheritance is kept in heaven for you. 1 Peter 1:4

You probably came to recovery because you were 'sick and tired of being sick and tired' Sick of the pain, the lies the destruction. One day at a time you are now learning the principles of recovery. Step twelfth encourages us to lead others to know God. Our message won't be accepted by everyone who needs to hear and respond to it. But those who do will know relationship with Him is the diference between life or death for them.

Knowing God's peace

May good will and peace fill your lives through your knowledge about Jesus, our God and Lord! 2 Peter 2:2

experiencing God's kindness and peace depends on knowing Him. Sometimes we expect peace to come before we make healthy choices. This verse of scripture identifies for us peace comes when we focus on getting to know God. Improving conscious contact with God in our lives is an important part of our spiritual growth in recovery.

Broken trust

Hosea 3:1Then the Lord said to me, “Go and love your wife again, even though she commits adultery with another lover. This will illustrate that the Lord still loves Israel, even though the people have turned to other gods and love to worship them. ”

If we have broken trust with a spouse making amends will take time. False promises need to be evidenced by change before trust is fully restored,

During that time we can demonstrate our wrong behaviour has stopped.

Love and trust come together and can take time to restore. Focus on living the steps while you wait

Sharing together

Galatians 6:1-2 Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

The Bible tells us if someone is overcome by sin we should gently and humbly help them back on the path to recovery.

We are not the Saviour of anyone but we can love others as He loves us. We can become part of each others support network. Loving the sinner not the sin.

Follow Jesus!

“You abandon the commandments of God to follow human traditions" Mark 7:8

We all know the difference between right and wrong. Know that the easy way is not alsways the right way to do things. Following the ways of the world may give us relief in the short term but it will not help us for the long term. The only way to overcome our addictions and compulsions and remain overcomers for the long term is to follow God's commandments in all areas of our lives.

Family Influence

Because of his love he had already decided to adopt us through Jesus Christ. He freely chose to do this.Ephesians 1:5

Our family of origin has an influence on who we are today. Some of us want to pretend that our families are nearly perfect. Other may want to avoid responsibility for our actions by blaming our family. When we think about our lives we need to deal with the influence that our family had on us. As we do we have a right to hold them responsibile for their part in our current circumstances. It is part of the picture of who we are now.

However, it is our responsibility to take the steps we need to move us from where we are now to where God wants us to be. A better place for us and our family.

Praise God in all things.

Melbourne Order 614. 2010 graduated at TSA Commissioning tonight at Melbourne Convention Centre and God was praised.

Looking for approval?

Not one person can have God’s approval by following Moses’ Teachings. Moses’ Teachings show what sin is. Romans 3:20

The more we know about God the clearer it becomes that we don't measure up. We mus recognize our need of His daily help. When we fail in our walk with Him we can remind ourselves 'I am powerless without Him'

Seeking God's approval requires continually seeking His ways and support.

Start Spreading the News!

Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news,the good news of peace and salvation,the news that the God reigns.

God's message of salvation and deliverance is so wonderful it deserves to nbe shared. As we enter December and Step 12 let us all be bold and be prepared to introduce others to the saving Grace of jesus Christ. Not only will it help them but it will also help us be obedient to the command'Go and make disciples' Matthew 28:19

This is the essence of Step 12, which calls us to share what we have with others as we continue in recovery.

Know and accept the truth.

John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.

To be 'set free' is to know and accept the truth - about myself and about Jesus. The truth is on our own we are powerless, sinful and unmanageable. With God's truth as a life standard we can recognize, accept and confess our needs and struggles. As we confess, share and face the truth God will make us whole. Applying His truth to our lives daily will set us free from sinful habits, addiction and emotional bondage.

Personal Relationships

When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down and prayed with all of them. Everyone cried a lot as they put their arms around Paul and kissed him. The thought of not seeing Paul again hurt them most of all. Then they took Paul to the ship. Acts 20:36-38

Healthy personal relationships require investment of self. Building strong relationships with others requires sharing, caring, sorrowing, rejoicing and praying together. You will gather others around you only by giving yourself away to them.

A call to Holy Living

1 Peter 1:13 So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.

In order to live a Holy life we must learn to practice self-control. Self-control is not will power. I is not something we achieve by just saying no. Self-control is
developed as a result of following God's guidance, taking one step at a time. Self-contol grows gradually in our lives. It is produced in us by the Holy Spirit as we stay connected to Him on a daily basis.

When we stumble

Romans 11:11 Did God’s people stumble and fall beyond recovery? Of course not! They were disobedient, so God made salvation available to the Gentiles. But he wanted his own people to become jealous and claim it for themselves.

Whenever a person determines to overcome difficulties, or to change their lives they can be sure stumbles along they way. They will never experience completely plain sailing. They will also always be aware of warning signs of impending danger. Recovery can also like that. In these times we can rely on God to help us to continue on His path for us, even though we may stumble. Falling down is not failure, not getting back up is.

Reap what you sow!

Galatians 6:7-8 Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit.

After we have been forgiven we must deal with the consequences of our actions. In order to avoid negative consequences we need to practice positive actions. Prayer and meditation is a good place to start and develop positive action in our lives.

Hope in the Messiah

As we progress in recovery our thinking should become less like those whom we used and more like God's. Fear of rejection from not going along with the crowd should become a thing of our past as we as we learn fear of the Lord is all we need to receive all we need in life and recovery. Isaiah 8:11-13

As we look to our future, it is through prayer a meditation we should seek God's guidance. Isaiah 8:19

Jesus is the 'Prince of Peace' He alone can fill us with peace and make us whole, help us through all the changes that must occur to live lives of freedom with Him. Isaiah 9:6-7

Recovery requires a change of character, attitude and actions. Failure to change will result in destruction of our new found life and lead us to relapse. Isaiah 10:1-2

Through submission to His will for us God will us free Isaiah 10:27

 

To read scripture verses go to http://twitter.com/ArchieB_Aus

 

 

Relapse prevention

You cannot stand still and grow spiritually at the same time.

Gullible people kill themselves because of their turning away.
Fools destroy themselves because of their indifference. Proverbs 1:32

When we first enter recovery it can feel like we have discovered the answers to all our wants. As we grow in recovery we realise what we have discovered is answers to our needs, In order to continue spiritual growth we need to saty focused on God and not take for granted the gift of 'new life' He has given us.

Your own wickedness will correct you, and your unfaithful ways will punish you. You should know and see how evil and bitter it is for you if you abandon the LORD your God Jeremiah 2:19

As we grow we can be our own worst enemies. Facing the realities of a life of addiction and compulsion is not easy. That is why we must include God in every circumstance of our life. Seeking and doing His will need to become our 'normal instincts and action.

The LORD says, “I will cure them of their unfaithfulness. I will love them freely. I will no longer be angry with them. Hosea 14:4

No matter what we have done, what we are ddoing or what we will do God is there ready to forgive us when we return to Him, seek and obey His will for us.

Know God personally.

Hosea 4:6 My people are being destroyed because they don’t know me.

God wants us to know Him personally. Without intimate, growing relationship with Him we will experience difficulty applying the steps to our lives.

Remember what God has done for you!

Micah 6:4-5 For I brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from slavery. I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to help you. Don’t you remember, my people, how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead? And remember your journey from Acacia Grove[a] to Gilgal,when I, the Lord, did everything I could to teach you about my faithfulness.”

It is easy when thingd don't go our way to become negative and resentful, to convince ourselves faith is not for us. Or when things go right to take the credit ourselves and ignore God's part in our recovery. Successful recovery depends on us giving God the Glory for what he does in and through us. Failure to do so may result in relaspse.

Wrong for us..

Romans 14:23-24 You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right. 23 But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.

There are things in life that are not necessarilly wrong but could lead us to relapse. If we know they are wrong for us we need to avoid them, Even though they may not be sinful. If we have any doubt about something we need to stop, pray and ask God for the wisdom and strength to resist it,

Continually seek God

1 Chronicles 16:11 Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him.

Instead of looking back and seeing wrong things from our past we need to concentrate on the good things God has done. In prayer seek Him for strength today. Ask Him to fulfill His promise for tomorrow. Meditate on your victories , consider His faithfulness and hope.

Never Give Up

2 Corinthians 4:16-17 That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!

It is easy to quit. We have all faced problems in our addiction and compulsion. Relationship problems, work problems, health problems etc. In recovery we will also have to face problems, some that will make us want to quit and go back to what we know. Rather than quit concentrate on experiencing the inner strength from the Holy Spirit. In weakness the power of God will strengthen us moment by moment, hour by hour, day by day.

Requesting God's Guidance

Habakkuk 2:1-2 I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost.There I will wait to see what the Lord says and how he will answer my complaint.Then the Lord said to me,“Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others.

Contimued spiritual growth requires continual conversation with God and meditation on His replies to us. When God gives guidance to us He wants us to share those experiences with others. Like Habakkuk we to would be wise to heed God's reply and write things down. Both for our own benefit and for the benefit of sharing God's replies to our prayers to others.

Journalling our recovery walk is a good practice to get into early in recovery, It helps us share our story of:

'What we used to be like, what happened and what we are like now.' (Alcoholics Anonymous)

God makes wise choices for us.

1 Chronicles 29:12 Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength.

It is important for us all to remember this. Everything we have is from Him. Opportunities and options are given at God's discretion and He chooses the outcomes based on our actions and reactions.

Live God's Purpose Today

Having just returned home from the funeral service of my brother-in-law Phil Ernst I am convinced God wants nothing more from us than to Live His Purpose. In our families, our work, our play, our prayer and our praise. Through love He has made a way for us all to Live His Purpose and to achieve it we must seek Him through prayer and meditation daily and be obedient to His leading.

Look forward to a better life.

Matthew 26:38 “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. ”

Jesus understands our fear as we face our own cross on the way to new life. But during times of fear we can go to Him for encouragement . Finally Jesus found the grace to accept God's plan (Matthew 26:39) and so can we.

Lifestyle Change

2 Peter 2:17-18 These people are as useless as dried- up springs or as mist blown away by the wind. They are doomed to blackest darkness. They brag about themselves with empty, foolish boasting. With an appeal to twisted sexual desires, they lure back into sin those who have barely escaped from a lifestyle of deception.

Recovery requires lifestyle change. In our relationships whilst using we will always have people. Using partners, friends, workmates and family who want us to use. Because some suffer codependency and our getting clean removes our need of dependence on them. Others who if they accept our addictions and compulsions may have to also accept their own.

The 'Big Book' of Alcoholics Anonymous in the chapter ' How it Works' says "if you want what we have and are willing to go to any lengths to get it you are ready to take certain steps"

These steps are steps of lifestyle change. Without lifestyle change we cannot and will not achieve lasting, meaningful sobriety.

Family Influence

Luke 20:21 “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you speak and teach what is right and are not influenced by what others think. You teach the way of God truthfully.

Our family has an influence on who we are today. Some of is want to believe our family different than they really are. Others may want to avoid responsibility for our addiction and dependency, blaming our family.

The reality of our family make up is not always easy to accept. But accept it we must in order to establish ourselves in God's family and move forward in recovery. To be influenced in our future by God we must look at the reality of our family relationships today. Talk to God about what is wrong and trust Him to help us put it right.

Acknowledge God

Daniel 4:34
Nebuchadnezzar Praises God “After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal.

Despite recognizing that God exists and works miracles Nebuchadnezzar did not acknowledge God as Lord immediately. This may also be the case for us in recovery. Until we acknowledge that He is Lord He in not going to shape our lives for His purpose.

Meeting your needs

Proverbs 3:26 the Lord is your security.
He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.

Our needs are legitimate in life. What is not legitimate is the things we have relied upon to meet them. In order to achieve lasting, fulfilling recovery we must learn to change our reliance. Learning to depend on God instead of our addiction or compulsion will not only give us security but also happiness.

Many of us use because "we just want to be happy" The way to true happiness is found through faith in and obedience to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in out daily lives.

Meditate on what the Bible says

Psalms 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

When you read the Bible listen to what God is saying to you. The Holy Spirit will give you thoughts. Write them down and then share them with someone you trust.

Practice what the Bible Teaches.

Philippians 4:9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

To experience continued peace in recovery we must continually learn from the Bible and apply it to daily living.

Think about what the Bible says.

Philippians 4:8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

The Bible is not just a book to read. As we read it we need to think about what we are reading and how it applies to our new lives in recovery.

How God's Word changes us

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

1. Teaching us what is true.
2. Showing us what is wrong.
3. Straightening out our lives.
5. Preparing us for obedient living.
6. Equipping us for every task.

God loves Me!

Ephesians 3:14 When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father,

As we realise how much God loves us we feel that restoration and healing are possible. Grounded in His love we desire more and more communication with Him. And as a result of improved communication desire making His praise a life priority.

Honest Comminication

2 Timothy 2:16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.

A relationship with God has the same characteristics of other relationships - it demands honest communication on a regular basis.

Confident Prayer

1 John 5:14-15 we are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him. And since we know He hears us when we make our requests, we also know that He will give us what we ask for.

The more specific our prayers, the more specific the answers will be. The secret is to pray according to His will. We know His will by knowing His Word. Therefore, as we pray according to His Word, we know He’ll answer.

Blame

Romans 2:1 No matter who you are, if you judge anyone, you have no excuse. When you judge another person, you condemn yourself, since you, the judge, do the same things.

Ever since the beginning of time, indulgence in blame has been a human weakness. Blaming circumstances or people is a waste of time and effort. The biggest object of most blame-throwing is God. Putting our blame onto Him reduces the blame we place on ourselves, reduces our guilt and our shame. Blame complicates, destroys, wounds, assaults, destroys, but seldom heals, builds, smiles or resolves. So what is the point of blaming circumstances, others or God for our addiction and situation? The answer!! None….

Blame leads to resentment, aggression and low self-esteem. It alienates us from others and causes isolation. As a result of it we become bitter, feel guilty, rejected, unhappy and misunderstood. With the attitude of blame we have no hope of recovery.

We have all been sucked into the practice of blame. It is a downward spira from which we have one escape. God awaits hearing from us…l

Worthy of all Praise.

Psalms 96:4 For GOD is great, and worth a thousand Hallelujahs. His terrible beauty makes the gods look cheap;

It is a delightful thing to possess inner assurance of the existence of God and know Him personally. The Bible affirms God is a person. A self-conscious being, totally independent of other beings. A personal God who is knowable, on a person-to-person basis. One who longs for love and desires company. One who invites our trust and obedience. It is encouraging when we can declare together 'God is our God' - Worthy of all Praise.

Attitude Towards Recovery

1 John 5:4-5 For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.

Our performance in seeking and doing the will of God will be weakened if we have a take it or leave it attitude towards recovery and continue to practice bad habits. Growing spiritually requires continued application of the principles of recovery.

The God of today

Deuteronomy 20:3-4 He will say to them, ‘Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight your enemies today! Do not lose heart or panic or tremble before them. For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory! ’

Any activity in which we engage is worth a good start. If we start well there is a good chance of continuing successfully. If we can count God on our side how beneficial is it?

Having God on our side daily makes starting each day well so much easier.

Compassion goes beyond words

Job 6:14 A despairing man should receive loyalty from his friends,, even if he abandons the fear of the Almighty.

When people are going through crisis, sound counsel is unwelcome. They may listen politely whilst fuming inside . When we try to help others in crisis we should be slow to give advice. Simply listening compassionately is sometimes better than offering solutions.

Self Management

2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth.

When our lives are in crisis reason and logic disappear. Sensible decisions escape us, vision is non existent, common sense departs. We are confused and as a result suffer from self mismanagement. In recovery we need our wits about us. As life changes we need to manage ourselves in accordance with God's Word to ensure we make the right decisions at the right times to maintain daily spiritual growth.

Reach out

2 Corinthians 9:6 Remember this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously.

Recovery advocates we should help each other. Similar experiences make it possible for us to understand each others agony. Those who have overcome the stronghold of addiction have a responsibility to share our strengthening experience. Showing ourselves stronger through faith could be the difference between anothers success or failure.

Rise above feelings

Matthew 7:24 everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock.

We all have the ability to do something when we feel depressed and deflated. We can get on top of things again! We don't need to stay down. We have access to divine power. Have Someone able to impart new life and give us strength. Jesus Christ. Feelings are temporary but the Love of God for us is permanent and unchanging.

Prepared?

Matthew 24:44 Be ready then; for at a time which you have no thought of the Son of man will come.

People seldom invest in moral and spiritual effort as they do to chasing material things. Are we prepared for Jesus return right now? Or are we still manipulating circumstances in our lives to suite our own desires?

Everlasting Covenant

2 Samuel 23:5 Is it not true my house is with God? For He has established an everlasting covenant with me, ordered and secured in every detail. Will He not bring about my whole salvation and my every desire?


Through ups and downs God stands by us. He promises hope and forgiveness to us. We can be sure no matter how bad things may seem at times, He is faithful to His promises.

If only

Numbers 11:4-6 "If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!"

We live in a land of plenty. Yet we continue to have a longing 'if only we had???'. It is a human weakness in us all to want what is no good for us. As we grow in recovery we need to develop an appetite for the good things set before us by God.

God loves the brokenhearted

Psalms 34:18 The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit.

Usually we need to come to the end of our addiction with crisis (rock bottom) It is then we come to our senses, wake up to ourselves. Then we start to experience the 'poor me's.' We fear what the collapse of all we know and are 'comfortable with' will do to us.

God is waiting to attend to those who are 'broken in spirit' and dare call on Him. Whenever we are downhearted or defeated there is only one thing to do - cry out to God and learn to 'rely on Him'

Driven by Desire

James 1:14 But each person is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own evil desires.

While in recovery addicts react like any other person. But, the first drink or drug sets a terrible cycle in motion. Most of us have no idea why we take the first drink or drug. Some have excuses with which they are satisfied, but in their hearts, they really do not know why they do it. (The Big Book of A.A.) An indefinable something' causes disappointing relapse. Often this stimulates further recovery action, but sometimes leads to giving up.

When driven by desire and relapsing it is important for us all to remember 'perseverance is getting up one more time than you fall down'.

Incentive

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.

What we cannot, God can. The God of creation, who made chaos disappear and brought ordered design and beauty on planet earth is our God. We must daily keep up our intake of His promised Spirit. Keeping Him forever central in maintaining sobriety and spiritual progress.

Keeping Fit

Deuteronomy 5:33 Follow the whole instruction the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live, prosper, and have a long life in the land you will possess.

As with any exercise, following God's commands must be maintained on a regular, consistent basis. Otherwise we will become unfit. To walk with God, we must go His way. Doing so will result in God dealing with our unfit condition, establishing our fitness and keeping us fit as we continually grow in faith and obedience.

Sobriety Plus

Romans 5:8 God proves His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!

Sobriety can only be maintained if we nurture the right attitude. Admission to being born a sinner is essential to recovery. Repentance means acknowledging our sinfulness and accepting how wrong our attitudes have been. Repentance is also confessing our wrong attitudes and actions and turning our lives over to God.

Enlisted as Disciples

Matthew 10:25 It is enough for the disciple that he may be as his master, and the servant as his lord.

Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. The Lord states 'those wanting to follow Him must renounce self, give up sinful practices, questionable habits, time, possessions and our future' This is a cost of Discipleship

Whilst this list may seem extreme, think of what Christ did for us on the cross. Meditate on it and the price of following becomes the best bargain we will ever receive in this life.

Human Dignity

Genesis 1:27 God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

Being a special part of God's creation gives us dignity: He created us in His image. Out of love He created the earth and gave us a special place in it.

God's personal care of us gives us dignity; We become free through accepting God's Grace. Needing no longer to be bogged down by past sins.

Even insignificant acts carried out for God carry dignity: When we serve others - even in ordinary, everyday tasks, we are serving God. Serving Him brings dignity to everything we do in His name.

Principles of Witnessing

Proverbs 14:5 A true witness does not say what is false, but a false witness is breathing out deceit.

We must not become so preoccupied with our own recovery we neglect to share it with others.

We should never prevent others from the opportunity to respond to our sharing.

We should always share the truth. Good, bad and indifferent. God never wastes a failure or a victory.

Our witnessing should always glorify what God is doing in our lives we cannot do for ourselves.

Face reality

Ephesians 5:11-12 And have no company with the works of the dark, which give no fruit, but make their true quality clear; For the things which are done by them in secret it is shame even to put into words.

'People are not addicted to drugs, they are addicted to escapism'. This quote reveals so much about us.

I read an acrostics on fear yesterday by a man in the 614 community which also reveals our inner being.

Forget Everything And Run or
Face Everything And Recover.

Escapism is a spiritual problem. In recovery we all have an opportunity to rethink and come to sanity, to embrace the salvation of God. ' How shall we escape, if we neglect such great salvation?. (Hebrews 2:3)

Keep watch and listen

Unwillingness to see and tackle problems has always been a human weakness. Criticising others without seeing our own shortcomings is unacceptable. We must keep watch on ourselves, ask God's direction for future actions and listen to Him as He responds to us.

Proverbs 20:12-13 The hearing ear and the seeing eye are equally the Lord's work. Do not be a lover of sleep, or you will become poor: keep your eyes open, and you will have bread enough.

Victims of Superiority

Genesis 32:10 I am less than nothing in comparison with all your mercies and your faith to me your servant.

Bashing by bullies causes quick reactions, but few rush to aid the victims. No matter our size all of us are inadequate to combat one sort of attack or another. We don't all get bashed up, but few escape beatings in one kind of a conflict or another.

When confronted with conflicts that are superior to us we must remember no matter how big the issue Jesus has overcome the world. Faith in Him will lead to experience of His mercies of magnitudes we cannot understand.

Bad Bruising

Hosea 6:1 Come, let us go back to the Lord; for he has given us wounds and he will make us well; he has given blows and he will give help.

In life, much bruising occurs. Often when we think we are traveling well. (Ecclesiastes 4:10) tells us about having support to help us up when we fall.

Hurts are worse when no one cares. Healing of the inner spirit is never healed by lone effort.

Always be willing to ask Him to attend to you when you find yourself bruised and in distressing situations.

God holds us accountable

We fall, we regret. We sink low because of addiction. But God offers us all a way to recovery. He calls us to follow His instruction and He holds us accountable in obedience to Him.

1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 For you are all sons of light and of the day: we are not of the night or of the dark. So then, let us not take our rest as the others do, but let us be self- controlled and awake.

God's timing

When we expect things 'right now' it is important to remember we did not arrive at our current life location overnight. Recovery is a process that takes time. God is a God that gives according to our ability to handle.

Romans 5:3-5 And not only so, but let us have joy in our troubles: in the knowledge that trouble gives us the power of waiting; And waiting gives experience; and experience, hope: And hope does not put to shame; because our hearts are full of the love of God through the Holy Spirit which is given to us.

God doesn't lie.

The salvation of Christ is adequate to rescue us from the horror of our past. Through acceptance of His truth we find refuge and hope in Him.

Hebrews 6:18 So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.

Stuff happens

When we turn from disillusionment to a new-lifestyle, it is not going to be easy. We will run into all kinds of problems. God knows this and summons us to continually trust Him.

John 16:33 In the world you have trouble: but take heart! I have overcome the world.

Jesus can and will make us clean

You just need to ask Him too.

Mark 1:40-42 And a leper came to him and, going down on his knees before him, made a request, saying, If it is your pleasure, you have the power to make me clean. And being moved with pity, he put out his hand, and touching him said to him, It is my pleasure; be made clean. And straight away the disease went from him, and he was made clean.

Freedom is what we have.

Thank God for the rough road of awareness. For helping us to change from lives of lies, camouflage, humiliation and defeat - to lives of truth, openness, humility and freedom.

Galatians 5:1 Christ has truly made us free: then keep your free condition and let no man put a yoke on you again.

Prayer

Praise God for always being available
Reach out regularly
Allow Him to communicate with you
Yield to His persuasions
Entrust your life to Him
Retain relationship with Him

Change of nature required.

Often we want to stop but can't. It's then we need to depend on God.

Romans 7:25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.

Probation

We are all on probation and the conditions are clear.

Isaiah 55:6-7 Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

Self abandonment

God longs for us to show total abandonment of ourselves to His control. Through it He will bring us uplifting encouragement and strength.

“Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, who pleases me. I have put my Spirit upon him.
Isaiah 42:1

The way we were.

Addiction and compulsion compelled us to extreme behaviour. The Gospel of Jesus Christ compels us to extreme change. How will you live today?

1 Corinthians 4:20-21 For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power. Which do you choose? Should I come with a rod to punish you, or should I come with love and a gentle spirit?

Start your own group.

All over the world for many different reasons small groups provide support to those who gather and share. We are created for community. Gathering together for the purpose of prayer, support and strength benefits us all on our recovery walk.

John 17:15 I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one.

Get some Spiritual Excercise

Physical exercise has value, but Spiritual exercise is much more important.

1 Timothy 4:7-8 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. ”

Reaching out to others

Sharing our story with others to help them discover their need of God and recovery will mean having to go into deep, uncomfortable places. When this is required we need to remember Jesus is with us and He has already been there.

Luke 5:4 When he finished teaching, he said to Simon,"Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch."

Lead by example

There will always be people who are jealous or threatened by our recovery. They may try and stop us achieving God's purpose so they can feel important or superior. Like Daniel we need to prove ourselves capable, stay on course and lead by example.

Daniel 6:4 Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy.

Count the cost

Counting the cost applies not only on our decision to follow Jesus, but also on the cost of recovery. If we cannot give up our sinful lifestyle for the long haul then recovery will be short lived.

Luke 14:28 “But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?

Contentment

There is nowhere as bad as nowhere. Which is where a lot of us feel we are. True contentment in life comes from faith and trust in God.

John 3:36 That is why whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever! And that is also why the person who avoids and distrusts the Son is in the dark and doesn't see life. All he experiences of God is darkness, and an angry darkness at that."

God is waiting for you.

God is waiting for us to call on him. He is not reluctant. He is generous, patient and faithful. Waiting for our appeal. 'Call upon me' He says. Jeremiah 33:3

Isaiah 30:18 The Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.

Stop! Look and Travel

God tells us to stand at the crossroad and look in order for us to come to our senses. He proposes self-examination, sorting ourselves out. God's way is a choice we are all faced with in recovery. It is sad when people do not want to know Him and follow His way.

Trust Him today and travel His way.

Jeremiah 6:16 “Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your soul.

Perserverance brings reward

A prize gained without effort isn't really a prize.

Proverbs 10:5Make hay while the sun shines-- that's smart; go fishing during harvest-- that's stupid.

Doing it tough?

James 5:13a Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray.

A good time does not require wine.

Time to stop supposing and opposing. To start believing and receiving.

Ephesians 5:18-19 Don't drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ.

One in the bond of love

Addiction is an international problem. Addicts belong to a universal brotherhood. The common denominator? Sinfulness, all wearing the same tag 'sinner'. As much as many of us would like not to identify with this tag, every person is born into one family, from one source. Sin is already in us, when we arrive on this earth. Corrupt humanity craves sinful habits with one way to freedom from it. Jesus is the ONE..

Acts 17:26-28 Starting from scratch, he made the entire human race and made the earth hospitable, with plenty of time and space for living so we could seek after God, and not just grope around in the dark but actually find him. He doesn't play hide- and- seek with us. He's not remote; he's near. We live and move in him, can't get away from him! One of your poets said it well:'We're the God- created.'

Fear of past actions.

If you don't want the past to haunt you. Tell the truth.

Proverbs 12:19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.

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Be prepared

Revelation 16:15 “ I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed. ”

Free Spirits

Addiction took us captive but Jesus sets us free.

2 Corinthians 3:17 For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

Father’s Day

Father's Day for many of us in recovery can be a difficult day. A day when we remember the mistakes of our earthly fathers and the pains of our past.

Today I was drawn to the story of Noah, and his relationship with his three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

Noah was a man who was obedient to God. Building a huge boat, despite facing ridicule. Obeying God and teaching his three sons to do the same. Then following the flood receding becoming a farmer, working the land and one day making a mistake his sons could see plainly. Getting drunk on his home made wine and ending up naked in his tent Genesis 9:18-23. The Bible tells us Noah then lived another 350 years after the flood. One would assume in that time he didn't stop being a father and continued his relationship with his sons.

As I read the story of Noah and his sons I asked myself 'What are the lessons here for me as a father of three beautiful children?'

The answers:

1. Obeying God is a lifelong commitment and I need to be in it for the long haul.
   
2. To teach my children right I must 'lead by example' I can't have two sets of rules. The Bible is clear on how we should live.
   
3. If Noah, a righteous man, God's man can give in to the excesses of alcohol I must continually be on my guard to avoid becoming vulnerable to the temptations that exist in my life.
   
4. It's okay to make a mistake as long as I recognise it, confess it to God and make restitution when I am required to do so.

God's gift to us

He loves us so much He provided a way out of addiction, compulsion and everything else. That way is faith in Jesus and trust in Him.

Ephesians 2:8 Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It's God's gift from start to finish!

Guilty

For a big part of my recovery I admired others and tried to copy their behaviour. Then I stopped, prayed, listened and found my own identity in Him.

Romans 12:2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Memories

Proverbs 23:29-35 Who has anguish? Who has sorrow? Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining? Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? It is the one who spends long hours in the taverns, trying out new drinks. Don’t gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is,how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. For in the end it bites like a poisonous snake; it stings like a viper. You will see hallucinations, and you will say crazy things. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, clinging to a swaying mast. And you will say, “They hit me, but I didn’t feel it. Ididn’t even know it when they beat me up. When will I wake up so I can look for another drink? ”

Ongoing correction

None of us looks forward to correction. But in recovery we are continually corrected by God as we learn a new way of living and relating.

1 John 1:8 If we claim that we're free of sin, we're only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense.

Don't give up on others

Even when you feel like you are not getting through, When others are on the relapse merry go round. Perservere in spreading the 'Good News' of recovery.

2 Timothy 2:25-26 work firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil's trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.

No self-worth

Job 3:23 Why is life given to those with no future, those God has surrounded with difficulties?

Why when God wants something done does He give it to someone who usually feels inferior?

The first step to achieving better feelings about ourselves is recognising our unworthiness in the sight of God. He alone can make us somebody and wants to do so. We are valuable because God created us in His image, He sent His Son to die for our sins. He sees us not just for what we are but also for what we are meant to be and can become with His help.

When temptation comes

Avoiding the things that are our weaknesses is imperative to recovery. We cannot flirt with them without falling for them.

The Bible says we should run away from them and concentrate instead on things that build Christ like character in us.

2 Timothy 2:22 Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness-- faith, love, peace-- joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God.

Be patient - more is coming

Continue to praise God for the successes you achieve in recovery and for the failures. Through each life event we learn to patiently wait on Him as He develops us into His purpose.

Romans 5:3 There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us,

Salvation

Has the root meaning of salvaging, recovering, rescue and deliverance.

Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19:10. His desire is to effectively free us from our lostness and bring us into a new way of living.

He called .... They came ....

Jesus ministered for just three short years. With varying degrees of response from people.

Mark 3:13 reminds us of those who answered His call. They came, hobbling, running with varying different needs, with the hope of a better deal, a new start.

We too have opportunity to come. To bring our whole sad past, repent of it, then relent and let go of it.

God never tires of our constant cries for help. He cares about us and wants us to allow Him to direct us to lives of sobriety and serenity far beyond anything we can imagine for ourselves.

Mark 3:13 Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him.

What's your excuse?

Proverbs 24:12 Don’t excuse yourself by saying, “Look, we didn’t know. ” For God understands all hearts, and he sees you.
He who guards your soul knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve.

Don't be greedy

Words we have all had spoken to us at sometime in our lives. Many of us exhaust ourselves trying to get more so we can satisfy our selfish desires. As we grow in recovery we need to seek only to have our needs met. The way to achieve that is through healthy relationship with God and with others.

Proverbs 23:4 Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit.

Good News for us!

God says in Isaiah even though He has observed our wrong attitudes and actions He will heal us, lead us and comfort us, ifwe reach out to Him and accept Him as our 'One True Higher Power'

That's 'Good News' for us

Isaiah 57:18 I have seen what they do, but I will heal them anyway! I will lead them. I will comfort those who mourn,

How is your world today?

1 John 5:4 For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith.

Unintentional hurts..

As our addictions and compulsions got out of control there are people we would have hurt, unintentional sins we commited. Nevertheless, we need to take responsibility for our actions by adding them to our list.

Romans 3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Fear of failure

In what specific area of recovery are you afraidof failure?

Philippians 4:19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

What message are you sowing in the heart of others?

Persevere at doing the right thing.

Galatians 6:7-9 Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Sick people can't help sick people

In recovery we come across people who are ready to tell us what is good for us. Or to tell us how to live our lives. Often these are people who are making a mess of their own lives, which causes us to make more mess of ours.

If you want to be a winner, follow the example of winners.

Psalms 1:1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked,.

Who are you leading astray?

Anger at our self and our own circumstances often leads us to wrong attitudes and actions. Which can lead us to take others down the wrong road with us.

Proverbs 16:29 Violent people mislead their companions, leading them down a harmful path.

Recovery requires obedience to God's laws

We have spent our lives choosing what we want to obey, usually the things that benefit us. Now as we grow in spiritual maturity we must learn to put others first.

Matthew 5:17-19 “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Scaling the walls

Let God be God. He promises all the walls that exist in our lives can be scaled through faith in Him and reliance on His power.


2 Samuel 22:30 In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall.

What consumes you?

We all have passions. Things that get us excited, give us satisfaction.

What are yours? How have they impacted your ability to make amends?

John 2:17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me. ”

What consumes you?

We all have passions. Things that get us excited, give us satisfaction.

What are yours? How have they impacted your ability to make amends?

John 2:17 Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume me. ”

Learn to trust others

Most of us can identify one or two people with whom we had special bonds growing up. A friend, a sibling, a team mate. Someone we knew we could always rely on in tough times.

When we prepare to make amends, we also need to prepare our hearts to accept whatever love, support or friendships may develop as a result of this step. God never designed us to be alone. The supportive relationships we experience in recovery are God given to strengthen us in our spiritual growth.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.

Admit your fears

Becoming wiiling to make amends to those we have harmed can be a fearful proposition for us. Just like the disciples we can have doubts. But like Peter we need to take risks and trust God will be there to hold us up when we feel we are sinking.

Matthew 14:26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost! ”

Experiencing bitterness

We all have experienced bitterness in our past. How has it affected us? How does it impact our ability to forgive and be forgiven?

Are you ready to make amend?

Job 10:1 " I can't stand my life-- I hate it!- I'm putting it all out on the table, all the bitterness of my life-- I'm holding back nothing."

Poor choices

In our addictions we made poor choices, not considering their effect on ourselves or others. As we become willing to make amends for those choices we need to now consider the effect of making amends to those we have harmed and ask ourselves "is this going to repair or cause further problems in this relationship?" if making amends is going cause more problems than they will resolve then they are best left as is.

In these instances we should ask for and accept God's forgiveness, forgive ourselves and move on.

Remember 'a small step on God's direction is always a positive step in our spiritual growth.

James 3:4 And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong.

Restitution is a requirement of recovery

There are no suitable excuses for ignoring God's commandments.

Proverbs 6:30-31 Hunger is no excuse
for a thief to steal; When he's caught he has to pay it back, even if he has to put his whole house in hock.

Live in the light

Becoming willing to make amends requires us to move out of the darkness into the light. Realising my recovery is for my benefit. I can with God's help change me but I cannot change others.

Loving others means allowing them to make their own choices.

1John 2:10-11 Anyone who loves another brother or sister is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. But anyone who hates another brother or sister is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness.

Recovery is

Our foundation for Spiritual growth.

Psalms 138:8 The Lord will work out his plans for my life.

Recovery is not

Just staying sober.

1 Corinthians 3:3 for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world?

Control your anger

Anger prevents us becoming willing to forgive and be forgiven.

Colossians 3:8 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.

Become Willing

Becoming willing is an example of us doing our part as God does His. This is a work that has to happen in our hearts.

Colossians 3:23 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.

Recovery for all

Regardless of who we are, where we are or what circumstances we find ourselves in we can recover with Go's help.

Romans 11:11 Did God’s people stumble and fall beyond recovery? Of course not! They were disobedient, so God made salvation available to the Gentiles. But he wanted his own people to become jealous and claim it for themselves.

Broken relationships

Broken relationships hinder our worship of God

Matthew 5:23 So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you,

We need to forgive each other

Recovery is about realising our need for others.

Matthew 6:15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Outward Focus

Step 8: I made a list of the people I have harmed and became willing to make amends to them.

The first seven steps have challenged us to look at ourselves and ask God to help us change. Step eight requires us to evaluate our relationships with others. To make a list of who we have harmed, how we have harmed them and become willing to make restitution to them.

The Bible tells us the two most important commands are: love God and love others. Excuses can be made for avoiding step eight and nine but if you want to experience God's peace in your life you need to learn to give and accept forgiveness in all areas of your life.

Luke 6:31 Do to others as you would like them to do to you.

Follow God's Rules

By applying the Steps daily and following God's direction you will see positive changes in your life. But it requires continued application. Recovery is not a once off event.

John 8:31-32 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. ”

He paid a debt He did not owe

God loves us and for that reason He sent Jesus. To pay our debt so we can be forgiven and be with Him forever. A gift we don't deserve just because He cares.

Ephesians 1:7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.

Stay Alert

Daily application of the Steps will keep us from returning to our old ways of thinking and acting.

1 Peter 5:8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

God with us

2 Corinthians 13:11 Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.

God promises to be with us always. No circumstance in our lives are too much for Him to remain. It is important we know this. We must 'walk by faith, not by sight'. (2 Corinthians 5:7) We can always count on Him, even in the tough times. As we trust Him we discover his availibility and grow in strength.

What a great reason to be joyful and encourage each other as we walk the road of recovery together .

Yout choice

Help each other recover or share hell together.

Romans 6:16 Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.

Friendship

As we progress in recovery we evaluate our relationships. As we do we discover many people we considered friends weren't. We simply associated with each other out of comfort or self satisfaction.

Going forward our recovery will be as successful as the health of our relationships. Good inentions are not enough. If we surround ourselves with unhealthy relationships with friends, family etc we are heading for failure.

To build relationships that will help us love and follow God we must set standards for our relationships.

Part of this is learning to take responsibilty, apologizing and making amends for our past failures.

Next week we begin Step 8: Made a list of all persons we have harmed and became willing to make amends to them all. COME AND JOIN US!

Proverbs 20:6 Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?

Draw close to God

Modelling God's character is difficult for most of us. Submission and humility are required but often unreachable because they require dependence on Him.

Willingness to be guided through uncomfortable and sometimes unlikable shotcomings in ourselves are not areas where we feel at ease.

Humbly seeking His will draws us closer to Him and weakens the grip of our dependencies on our lives. This then opens the way for Him to commence rebuilding our lives.

James 4:7-10 So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. 8 Say a quiet yes to God and he'll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. 9 Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. 10 Get down on your knees before the Master; it's the only way you'll get on your feet.

Be yourself

God accepts us as we are. He doesn't expect us to be perfect. When we accept Him and follow His lead He provides the direction and the power we need to build a new life.

All He asks is we be ourselves .

Titus 3:4-7 But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, 5 he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. 6 Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. 7 God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come-- an eternity of life!

Still Hiding?

We often have areas in our lives where we hesitate to be truly honest. In Step 7 we need to find the courage to admit our weaknesses and accept responsibility for them In order for God to begin the process of change in us. He is on our side and will help us in this process.

Job 13:24 Why is your face veiled from me, as if I was numbered among your haters?

Transforming power

Micah 4:7 I will transform the battered into a company of the elite. I will make a strong nation out of the long lost, A showcase exhibit of GOD's rule in action.

Gods power to rebuild our character and lead is toward transformed lives becomes evident to us as we learn the reality of Step 7 for our lives and apply it on a daily basis.

One Day At A Time

-Marcus Aurelius : "Everyman's life lies within the present, for the past is spent and done with, and the future is uncertain."

Jesus lightens our guilt load

Psalms 68:19 Blessed be the Lord-- day after day he carries us along

Jesus Christ is the great burden bearer. He took on the full weight of our sin at Calvary. Through daily self-maintenance (Step 10) He continually forgives us and lightens our guilty load.

Step 7: Learn from your mistakes.

Proverbs 17:9 Overlook an offense and bond a friendship; fasten on to a slight and-- good- bye, friend!

The last thing we need to hear in recovery is how bad our offences were. When we confess in Step 5 and repent in Step 6 God forgives and forgets. So we don't need to be reminded by others of the people we were. What we need is to ignore them and concentrate on being who God wants us to be today.

Investgate God for yourself

Proverbs 16:2 Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good; GOD probes for what is good.

Stop living behind your mask. God's promises are for you too.

Live by trusting Him

Acts 16:31 They said,"Put your entire trust in the Master Jesus. Then you'll live as you were meant to live-- and everyone in your house included!"

God's Soldiers

Joel 3:9 Announce this to the godless nations: Prepare for battle! Soldiers at attention! Present arms! Advance!

True Humility

Step 7: Humbly asked God to remove my shortcomings.

True Humility is a result of breaking through Denial. Dying to self through relationship with God.

Studying the Twelve Steps

Studying the 'Steps of Recovery' is useless without application to our daily living.

Take what you want and leave the rest.

Growing spiritually and emotionally requires listening to others. None of us can recover alone. Learn to listen to others, mistakes and failures. Apply what works for you.

Proverbs 12:15 Fools are headstrong and do what they like; wise people take advice.

Over Confidence

Step 7: I humbly asked God to change me.

It is important in this step to 'know what I don't know about myself' to ask God to reveal it to me, give me the wisdom to accept it and strength to change it if needed.

Proverbs 18:15 Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.

Step 7: Transformation

Humbly asked God to remove my shortcomings.

As we apply this step in our lives we must learn to depend on the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who reveals the truth of God's word, holds us accountable and teaches us to live more in the image of Jesus daily.

Read John 15:26-27

Accountability is necessity

"A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself."

False Pride = Relapse

When we refuse to let God lead we are headed for a lost, wilderness experience.

Step 7: Ready for Change!

Obadiah 1:8 So don't be surprised" it's GOD's sure Word!

Be ready for God to surprise you!

Change

Not because you have to but because you love God.

Mark 12:30-31 so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.And here is the second:'Love others as well as you love yourself.'There is no other commandment that ranks with these."

Faith is strength

Knowing God has it under control and will not give up on me!


Philippians 1:6 I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

When you feel helpless - PRAY!

Psalms 116:6 GOD takes the side of the helpless; when I was at the end of my rope, he saved me.

God hears and answers prayers. In our addiction and dysfuntion we become blind to our need of relaionship with Him. But He remains on our side ready when we reach rock bottom to save us from our self destructive selves.

Regrets

Isaiah 26:4 Depend on GOD and keep at it because in the LORD GOD you have a sure thing.

Shame and regret will not disappear overnight. But if we learn God dependence and obedience to His will as we grow Spiritually they will leave is.

Contentment is:

Discovering God's purpose for your life and moving towards it.

Keep your eye on the prize. Don't be careless with what God has given you or worse get complacent....

Proverbs 1:32 Don't you see what happens, Carelessness kills; complacency is murder.

It's worth persevering

Philippians 3:8 Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. Compared to the high privilege of knowing Christ Jesus as my Master, firsthand, everything I once thought I had going for me is insignificant-- dog dung. I've dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ

Speak hope to others

1 Thessalonians 5:11 So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind.

An enouraging word can be the difference between success in recovery and relapse. Look around you and be sensitive to the needs of others for encouragement. Just for today be supportive with your words and actions.

Above All - Jesus

Colossians 1:28 We preach Christ, warning people not to add to the Message. We teach in a spirit of profound common sense so that we can bring each person to maturity. To be mature is to be basic. Christ! No more, no less.

Mistakes

Genesis 4:6-7 God spoke to Cain: "Why this tantrum? Why the sulking? If you do well, won't you be accepted? And if you don't do well, sin is lying in wait for you, ready to pounce; it's out to get you, you've got to master it."

When someone points out you have made a mistake do you deny it? or try to correct it?

God gave Cain a chance to right his wrong, but Cain refused.

Through recovery God gives us a chance to right our wrongs, to correct our mistakes. Recovery demands rigorous honesty and when others point out our mistakes it is important we are open minded enough to look at them and make changes to live God's way instead of our own.

Progress

Sometimes we feel we are not making progress in our spiritual lives. The 'Good News', when God starts a project He completes it!

He will help us to grow until He has completed His work in us.

When we get discouraged in recovery we need to remember that God will not give up on us.

Philippians 1:25 So I plan to be around awhile, companion to you as your growth and joy in this life of trusting God continues.

Self Discovey #1

Self-discovery is a lifelong, God assisted task.

The Lord will guide you continually,giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. Isaiah 58:11

Recovery is not the goal

John 14:28 "You've heard me tell you, 'I'm going away, and I'm coming back.' If you loved me, you would be glad that I'm on my way to the Father because the Father is the goal and purpose of my life.

Some people are afraid of recovery because they see it as too big a task. They see it as giving up on being themselves. Nothing could be further from the truth. God wants me to be me and you to be you! The you He created you to be. Our goal is not recovery, our goal is spiritual growth through service to others.

Self-Discipline.

Step Six is an inner transformation.
Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.


Hear what God says :
(Walk with Him – Talk with Him – Listen to Him )

Listen to this message from the LORD, you nations of the world; proclaim it in distant coastlands:  
 
The LORD, who scattered his people, will gather them and watch over them as a shepherd does his flock.


Believe what God says:
(He tells the truth – He backs up what He says – He cares about you)

When Jesus got home, the blind men went in with him. Jesus said to them, "Do you really believe I can do this?" They said, "Why, yes, Master!"


Follow what God says
(Move from your comfort zone – Be courageous )

Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how.


Act on what God says
(Changed attitudes—Changed values—Changed beliefs)

All we're saying is that God has the first word, initiating the action in which we play our part for good or ill.


Leave the results to God
(Focus on Jesus - Trust and Obey)

Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.

Advance In Believing

We are called to a belief that bonds us to Christ. It is belief in Him that battles and overcomes our addictions and compulsions.

Step Six is an inner transformation

The first step to inner transformation is self-acceptance.

• Acceptance of who I am :
My character – My values – My beliefs

2 Peter 1:5 So don't lose a minute in building on what you've been given, complementing your basic faith with good character, spiritual understanding.

Proverbs 14:15 The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word.

• Acceptance of my addictions and dependencies:
Chemical Relational and Habitual

Titus 3:7 God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come—an eternity of life!

Proverbs 18:9 Slack habits and sloppy work are as bad as vandalism.

• Acceptance of my need for help
Emotional, Financial, Social And Spiritual

Proverbs 14:30 A sound mind makes for a robust body,but runaway emotions corrode the bones.

1 Peter 4:13 Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.

• Acceptance of responsibility for my past, present and future.

Galatians 6:5 Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.

Step 6 is about my willingness to change; not just STOP, but to let God change the things that need to change in me so I can become the person He wants me to be.

Step 6 is about removing the things in my life that block personal relationship with God.

Let God be God

Psalm 100:3 Know this: God is God. He made us; we didn't make him.We're his people, his well-tended sheep.

As we look at ourselves in recovery it is important for us to know. God is our Creator We did not create ourselves, nor did our parents or our life circumstances. Many of us as we pander to our addictions and compulsions adapt a stance of "Im right" - always "I know what's best for me" etc.

Whether we realise it or don't relaise it we see ourselves as the higher power. masters of our own destinies. This leads us to believe it's all about ME!

As we go through the examination of self and application of the recovery principles in our lives on a daily basis we will learn true recovery is about God increase - I decrease We well realise all we have is His and we will want to share what we have with others.

The Purpose of Recovery Church

Who is Recovery Church for? Recovery Church is for people with and in recovery from addictions!


What is the purpose of Recovery Church? The purpose of Recovery Church is to provide a safe environment where people can share their struggles and investigate the reality of Jesus Christ as the one true Higher Power in their lives. People are encouraged to put their faith in Jesus Christ and see their lives transformed through daily application of the Biblical principles from the Twelve Steps Program.

What do you do at Recovery Church? We commence with a time of worship, followed by a short message of interest and relevance to the group. We then break up into round-table discussions on the topic. There is also opportunity for people to share about any other struggles they may be experiencing in their recovery. At the end of the discussion, we have supper and fellowship. During this time, people are free to connect with others for support, and they are given referrals to other services if required.

How long does Recovery Church go?Recovery Church commences at 4:00pm and finishes at 5:30pm

Purpose Acrostic

Pursue God’s will
Col. 3:1 So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides.

Understand and live by God’s ways.
Psalm 119:144 The way you tell me to live is always right; help me understand it so I can live to the fullest.

Repeat what you have learned to others.
2 Tim. 2:14 Repeat these basic essentials over and over to God's people. Warn them before God against pious nitpicking, which chips away at the faith. It wears everyone out.

Perfect love for one another.
1 John 4:12 No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us—perfect love!

Own your recovery
Deut. 4:5 Pay attention: I'm teaching you the rules and
regulations that God commanded me, so that you may live by them in the land you are entering to take up ownership.

Share it with others
Hebrews 13:16 Make sure you don't take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good; share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship—a different kind of "sacrifice"—that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets.


Experience all God has in store for you.
1 John 1:6 If we claim that we experience a shared life with him and continue to stumble around in the dark, we're obviously lying through our teeth—we're not living what we claim.

#1 Purpose

In order to be really transformed by God's grace, it is not only important to see what we now are (Step 4), but also important for us to see what Christ can make of us by His grace (Step 6&7)

Love Acrostic

Let Jesus Christ’s love live in you

Ephes. 3:16-17 I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit—not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength— Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love.

Obey His one commandment to love each other:

John 14:21 "The person who knows my commandments and keeps them, that's who loves me. And the person who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and make myself plain to him."

Value His love in dying for you

1 John 5:9 If we take human testimony at face value,how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here,testifying concerning his Son.

Each forgiving one another in love

Ephesians 4:32 Be gentle with one another,sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

#2: Love is a Commitment

Matthew 19:4 He answered, "Haven't you read in your Bible that the Creator originally made man and woman for each other, male and female?

#1 Love is a choice

Does this mean if you dislike someone you cannot recover? No! There will always be people we will not like as well as others, But we need to have an attitude of tolerance towards them. Failure to tolerate will lead to stinking thinking which will lead to relapse. If we choose to love others God will help us express love.

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 1 John 3:16

Rely on each other

When others depend on us, it takes away our independence - unless we let them down.

2 John 1:5 But permit me a reminder, friends, and this is not a new commandment but simply a repetition of our original and basic charter: that we love each other.

Obey Acrostic

Open your mind and heart.
Matthew 10:26 "Don't be intimidated. Eventually
everything is going to be out in the open, and everyone will know how things really are.

Believe God wants what's best for you.
James 2:23 The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend."

Example Jesus in your character.
Proverbs 11:6 Good character is the best insurance;
crooks get trapped in their sinful lust.

Yield to Gods purpose for your life
Romans 8:7 Focusing on the self is the opposite of
focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self
ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing.

#4 Obedience: Yield to Gods purpose for your life

Romans 8:7 Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing

It's not about me.... It's all about Him

#2 Obedience - for or against? Nothing in between

Luke 11:23 "This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you're not on my side, you're the enemy; if you're not helping, you're making things worse.

Through Christ's victory over the devil restoration and recovery became available to us all. But we must be aware as we travel the road of recovery that everyday we are in a war and victory can only be achieved daily through continued obedience to God's plan and purpose for us.

Step three involves a decision to let God be in charge of our lives - 100% daily control of every part of it. 100% commitment from us to Him and His mission of transformation of the lives of those who still suffer.


Step 3 Made a decision to turn our will and lives over to the care of God..