Identifying Our Stinking Thinking
Monday July 23, 2018
One of our greatest spiritual dangers in recovery is “stinking thinking”. What we think often leads to what we do, because our actions are based on our faulty thinking process. An incorrect assumption we make is the belief that “God cannot or will not help me”. When we think this way, we tend to allow ourselves to be dominated by fear – fear of the past, fear of guilt, fear of relapse, fear of embarrassment, fear of loneliness, fear of being hurt in relationship.
Jesus said, “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Matthew 28:20, Isaiah 41:10 NLT)
When we think that God cannot or will not help us, we leave ourselves open to harmful actions. We are too fearful to do what is right and good, so we end up experiencing emptiness and often choose addictive habits to deal with the pain of not being who we truly are. In our thoughts we tell ourselves, “we have no other option but to take care of ourselves”. We allow negative feelings and frustration with life to build up within us until we vent our fears in an angry outburst of words or actions towards whoever is closest at that moment. After an eruption of anger, we again experience discouragement, shame, loneliness, and increased pain because of the conflict. We blame God or others for where we are in life but fail to acknowledge that our best thinking is defective, and we need help.
The Lord says, I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord. (Psalm 32:8,10 NLT)
The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds those who trust in Him and, if we ask Him, He will teach us His way of life and peace in all our affairs. It’s time to open our minds and hearts to God and watch Him act on our behalf.
Prayer: Loving God, Help me to trust that you are good, that you are with me, and that you care about what happens in my life. Amen
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