When we let confusion reign in our minds we live as though in turbulent waters, allowing ourselves to be tossed about like the waves of the sea. Letting God steer our course brings us to calm waters, fills our hearts with joy, and delights those who live around us. Thinking and acting on our own self-centered thoughts often results in confusion and grief. Too often when we choose to follow our familiar selfish ways and ignore the guidance of the Holy Spirit we end up in despair. On the other hand, when we walk surrendered to, and empowered by, the Holy Spirit we experience more and more confidence and hope.
Our hope comes from God. May He fill you with joy and peace because of your trust in Him. May your hope grow stronger by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13 NLV)
What steals our joy in recovery and causes us to stumble? The main root cause is PRIDE. We begin to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. We start to find fault in our recovery program, the people around us, and our leaders and mentors. We blame our environment and others for our discontent. We start to feel confident in our own ability to manage our own recovery. We begin to believe that we could return to our old lifestyle and handle it more successfully than we did in the past. Our prideful thinking makes us feel we can succeed on our own without the help and guidance of our awesome God and that, sadly, is a deadly error in judgment.
You have felt secure in your evil ways. You have said, ‘No one sees what I’m doing.’ Your wisdom and knowledge lead you down the wrong path. You say to yourself, ‘I am like a god. No one is greater than I am.’ (Isaiah 47:10 NIRV)
God is a God of order; He is not a God of confusion. Surrendering our minds to Him brings peace to our whole being.
Prayer – Dear Lord, Forgive me when I think I can take care of myself. Help me to surrender to my helplessness without You. Today, I again turn my will and my life over to your care. AMEN
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