Attaching Our Hearts To The God Who Cares
Friday July 17, 2020
Substance abuse is often self-medication to compensate for the lack of expressions of love and safety in a relationship. When we are born, all of us require a safe emotional connection with a parent or caregiver. We need to know there is someone we can turn to for love and comfort. Scientists who study human development say this type of bonding nurtures every area of our development.
When we are ignored or abused by a parent or caregiver and feel empty inside, we tend to withdraw and find other ways to self-soothe. Addictions to substances and other unhealthy behaviours are often efforts made by a vulnerable person who is dealing with the trauma of feeling invisible and unloved.
So do not be afraid. I am with you. Do not be terrified. I am your God. I will make you strong and help you. I will hold you safe in my hands. I always do what is right. (Isaiah 41:10 NIRV) Whatever our background, God wants us to know Him and live in His care each day. It's why Step 3 is such a powerful statement, because if we don't know that God cares, how can we turn our will and our life over to Him?
I am poor and needy, but, Lord God, you care about me, and you come to my rescue. Please hurry and help. (Psalm 40:17 CEV)
To live in recovery is to bring ourselves to the God who cares with full expectation that God will respond to our cries for help. It’s a tough journey at first but if we will take it one step at a time, God will prove Himself loving and caring every single time. It’s a journey of choices where we look to God for love when times are tough. The more we experience God’s care, the deeper our trust and attachment to Him will be. Our whole personality will change as we intentionally live in God’s love and care.
For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. (Zephaniah 3:17 NLT)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Please fill my heart with Your love in those places where I’ve experienced detachment because of things gone wrong in my past. Make me whole again. Heal my mind and heart where abuse and neglect set me on a wrong course. Renew my mind so I can trust in Your loving care and believe that You are for me, You are with me, and that You will never leave or forsake me. Amen
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