When we reached the bottom in our addiction we knew we needed help to get ourselves out of our tangled brokenness. We came into recovery and asked Jesus and others to help us. However, once we gained a little strength, it didn’t take long for that “I can do it on my own” voice to return.
If you are proud, you will be destroyed. If you are proud, you will fall. Because he is proud, that evil person doesn’t turn to the Lord. There is no room for God in any of his thoughts. (Proverbs 16:18, Psalm 10:4 NIRV) In the past we believed no one cared enough to try and understand us and meet our needs. In recovery, why would things be any different? Why would the past experiences we need to face receive any better understanding from those around us right now? Wouldn’t it be better to just keep quiet, keep it simple, and work it out on our own? According to Jesus, NO! Independent thinking got us into addiction because independence is based on pride of self which is born out of hurt.
O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8 NLT)
Following our self-centered dictates, instead of Jesus’ instructions, actually holds us back from seeking and receiving the wisdom and support which God and friends are willing to supply. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. (James 1:5, Proverbs 12:15 NLT)
If we choose the independent road, sooner or later it will take us back to active addiction. Common sense says if we go down the same road, we will end up at the same place! We must choose a different route and that route is humbling ourselves before God and asking for His wisdom and helpful guidance in finding our path to new life.
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