Partners
In Hope

Overly Responsible

Thursday April 2, 2020

As we go forward in recovery we have come to realize that we are accountable for the actions we have done, the behaviour that has impacted our relationships, and the problems we created throughout our addiction.  It's not been an easy process for us to identify and take responsibility for these things, but it has been liberating and life changing as we have done so.

For some of us it's been a balancing act between taking responsibility for our part and being overly responsible for the actions of others that were beyond our control.  While we may have had a part to play in making life difficult for others, their choices remain their responsibility.  It is up to each person to identify their own issues and take any necessary action.  It's not our job to sort others out and fix their problems. 


The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength.  You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. (Isaiah 58:11 NLT)

It is important that we care and support others, assisting them when help is truly needed.  We do a disservice to others when we continually do things for them that, with instruction, they can do for themselves.  By being overly responsible we get in God’s way because God uses all the circumstances of a person’s life to draw them to Himself.

People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls. (Proverbs 28:13, 25:28 NLT)



Boundaries help us live respectfully and safely in our relationships.  When we define and uphold personal boundaries, they contribute to our peace.  When we get a clearer picture of what it takes to live in healthy ways, God will be honoured by having first place in all our decisions and actions.




Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Help me to identify and live within healthy boundaries.  I want to be supportive but avoid harming others by getting in the way of Your work in their lives. Please help me to be caring and wise each day.  Amen

©2020 Partners in Hope 
More information on this and other related topics @ http://www.partnersinhope.ca/life-with-god-in-recovery-resources/

Audio for Overly Responsible

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