How many of us have taken what we thought was a shortcut to a destination and instead ended up lost? At the time we rationalized that the shortcut would enable us to arrive more quickly at our destination. In recovery we often get to the point where we think that adhering to the program timetable we previously chose is actually too time consuming. In our prideful flawed thinking we reason we could end up with the same result by shortcutting the program. We may become reluctant to truthfully complete some of the steps of the 12 Steps program. We may choose to hold back and not reveal the deep things of our soul. These very things however, may be those which caused the anxiety and fears which subsequently contributed to our addictions and dependencies, and, if not dealt with, will take us to a relapse.
Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT)
Our program plan may include reading the Bible on a daily basis to learn the principles and guidelines for travelling the recovery path we are on. However, if we shortcut our daily meditation time and neglect to actually read the Bible, we are not going to gain the knowledge and strength that will sustain us in choosing for God’s guidance. Neglecting the Word of God is the same as saying that we don’t need God’s direction because we know a better way. If we persist with this attitude and take these kinds of shortcuts, it often results in losing our way on the road to recovery.
Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the Lord are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. For the Lord watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction. (Hosea 14:9; Psalm 1:6 NLT)
Today, let’s consider if we are faithfully travelling the road to recovery, or, looking for shortcuts.
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