Step Five Coming To Terms With Our Lifestyle

 Coming to terms with our lifestyle in addiction requires us to admit that, where our dependencies are involved, we have zero self-control.  Self-will alone is not enough to stop us from continuing on this dark path. The demon inside our heads is insistent that we do whatever is necessary to fulfill its demands or suffer the consequences.  We obey rather than suffer and give in to its demands. Recovery begins when we admit that the power behind our addiction is beyond our control. 

 Friends and family members have spoken to us about our lifestyle and suggested we get help.  Because we thought we were in control, we paid no attention to their concerns.  But, when we tried to stop what we were doing, it was evident that we were not the one in control. We were ruled by the selfish desires of our mind and body. There are two powers at work in this world.  One wants to destroy us and the other wants to give us eternal life.  Which power will we choose to obey? 

This is what I told them: Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Do everything as I say, and all will be well!  But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward.  (Jeremiah 7:23-24 NLT)

 When we admit that we are “powerless over our dependencies” we are making a true statement.  Thankfully, there is a Power greater than ourselves, and if we obey Him, all will be well.  Today is another opportunity to turn our will and life over to God’s care and experience His life-changing Power at work within us.  

Prayer:  Gracious God, I need a Power greater than myself to restore me to sanity and give me a meaningful life.  Please strengthen me to follow Your ways for I know I am powerless to help myself.  Amen

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