THE UNFAMILIAR

Coming into a recovery group is threatening for many of us.  The place is unfamiliar.  We don’t know the people, and compared to our former lifestyle, the rules seem restrictive.  We are not even acquainted with the God we prayed to when we knew we needed help. We are in unfamiliar territory and unsure if recovery is for us.  Thankfully, we can repeatedly cry out to God for help to get us through the unfamiliar, and God assures us that He will help.

Ah, God, listen to my prayer, my cry—open your ears.  Don’t be callous; just look at these tears of mine.  I’m a stranger here. I don’t know my way—a migrant like my whole family.  Give me a break, cut me some slack before it’s too late and I’m out of here. (Psalm 39:12-13 MSG)

If we listen attentively, we will hear God’s quiet voice encouraging us to be at peace and allow Him to settle our hearts as we make necessary adjustments.  If we choose for God and all His ways, rather than quitting, we will be accompanied by the One who is full of wisdom, compassion, and unfailing love for us.

Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.  Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.  (Psalm 25:4-5 NLT)

As we put our trust in God to help us, we will soon relax and become familiar with the routine of the program we have chosen.  We will get to know the people around us and allow them to get to know us.  If we have surrendered our will and our lives over to the care of God, nothing will be impossible for us to achieve.  We will soon be aware that our fear of the unfamiliar has abated, and the power of God will continue to strengthen us as we begin our new life with Him in recovery.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are ever present with me in my time of need.  When I am challenged by the unfamiliar, give me the confidence to remain close to You and do the next right thing.  Thank You for being my safe harbour from the storms of life. Amen