In Neutral

TRUTH

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭13

REFLECTION

“All things” is harder to wrap my head around than “some things.”

I can appreciate the breadth of this promise without ever taking hold of its fruits. I believe this was the condition I lived in during some, if not all, of my active addiction.

It’s not enough to believe, though.

That gets me started. That gets me fueled. That turns me toward the solution.

But I’m forever stuck in neutral if I don’t step forward.

The promise of empowerment means nothing if I never exercise it. The promise of hope is just a word if I never live.

The first step is vitally important: coming to believe we are powerless, and our lives are unmanageable.

But if we do nothing, if we profess without pushing toward something new, then we should not be surprised when the inevitable happens.

Relapse is the norm.

We are constantly recommitting to our self-absorbed way of life.

We must, and will, be fueled by something.

Sobriety is the monumental act of replacement.

We arrive with vacant spirits. And we know we need help. But our self-absorption draws us further inward until we either break and reach out for help or break and try to sew ourselves back up.

God, help me turn over the reins.

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NEXT

When you’re ready, here are some tools for you:

1. Book List (amazon link)
   Some of my favorite reads related to recovery and/or wrestling with faith.

2. 4th Step Guide (free download)
   A PDF with instructions and worksheets for a thorough 4th step. Straight from the Big Book. Fearlessness not included.

3. 12-Step Christianity (YouTube)
   My thoughts on the parallels between discipleship and sponsorship.

KEEP LEANING FORWARD

Cheers, Eamonn
Contact on LinkedIn, YouTube & Twitter.