Are These Extravagant Promises?
On pages 83-84 of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous we read twelve promises that will happen as we diligently work the twelve steps. The question is asked: “Are these extravagant promises? We think not. They are being fulfilled among us - sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly. They will always materialize if we work for them.”
The Bible also makes this “extravagant promise.” That’s also how it is with people. The ones who stop doing evil and make themselves pure will become special. Their lives will be holy and pleasing to their Master, and they will be able to do all kinds of good deeds. (2 Timothy 2:21 CEV)
Many of us have wasted years and even decades in addiction. By the time we get to recovery our bodies are tired and worn out, our minds are fragile, and it takes a long time for us to work out ways to learn new skills in this time of life. We often feel like the opportunity to be successful and productive has passed us by, but the sixth promise addresses us at this place when it says, “That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear.”
This promise is echoed in what God promises us. God’s plan for our lives will begin to be perfected at whatever point we put our trust in Him and begin to follow His ways. God will use everything in our past, and the present, and the future, to work together the amazing plan He has for us to have a meaningful, purposeful, and joyful life.
How does God do it? How does it all come about? We don’t know, and we don’t have to know. Our part is to get to know God, follow His guidance, stay strong in His love, and be available. God will teach us everything we need to know, and promises we will experience a fruitful and fulfilling life.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I wasted so much time in addiction and unhealthy life practices. Help me to believe Your promise that You can use me in a way that blesses others and fills me with joy and satisfaction. Show me my part and help me to enter into Your plan by doing the next right thing and leaving the rest up to You. Amen
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