Rationalizing (2)
Thursday June 22, 2017
One reason for rationalizing poor behaviour is that we want the pleasure or the power it offers. The harmful behavior has captured our imagination and grows more and more appealing as we obsess on it. Rationalizing provides convenient explanations so we can go ahead with our plan.
Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. (James 1:14-15 NLT)
We justify our wrong behaviour by telling ourselves that we just need a little bit of comfort and relief. We tell ourselves that no one really understands us. We blame others for the pressure they are putting on us in the moment. We believe the false claims of the evil one that life in recovery is just too difficult. We lie to ourselves that the behaviour isn’t actually all that bad and that we can start and stop whenever we choose.
If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. (1 Corinthians 10:12-13 NLT)
Addictive practices didn’t work in the past. We ended up with more problems than any temporary comfort or relief. Raging at others didn’t sort out our relationship issues. Gambling didn’t solve our financial problems. Pornography and casual sex didn’t take away our loneliness. Food didn’t meet the comfort needs in our soul. Are we, Hungry Angry Lonely Tired? We need to HALT, and listen to God’s invitation. “Are you tired? Worn out? … Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. … Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30 MSG)
Prayer: Loving God, I accept your invitation to life. I bring to You my longing for joy and my need for comfort. Show me how to find rest and relief as I once again turn my will and life over to Your care. Amen
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