One of the promises given to us as we grow in our recovery is: No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others. (Big Book pages 83-84) Who of us would deny the contribution of sharing our experience, strength, and hope with others, and in return receiving the same gift for ourselves. We are all excited to share what is working for us. This promise reminds us that it is in being vulnerable and willing to share even the lessons from our weakest times and darkest days that others receive benefit. Are we willing to give that gift today?
Each time he [God] said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. (2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT)
There’s no benefit in sharing “war stories” or wallowing in self-pity about how bad things were. None of us needs the triggering reminders that come from too many details of our experience in the dark days of active addiction. However, what we all need is hope, no matter how far we have fallen. A brief description of our circumstances and the amazing joy of being uplifted by a loving God from there to this day of life in sobriety – now that’s a story sure to bring hope to someone else.
I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord. (Psalm 40:1-3 NLT)
We were hopeless and powerless until God stepped in to rescue us. The grateful sharing of our getting on board with God and the stability He brought to our lives is a message others are longing to hear. It brings a spark of hope to the darkness of their own soul.
Prayer: Loving God, I am thankful for where I am today because You have rescued me and steadied my life. Please give me the willingness, humility, and focus to share how You found me on my darkest day and gave me new life. My desire is that others will be truly amazed at the awesome power You exert to help a hopeless addict. Amen
©2023 Partners in Hope
More information on this and other related topics @ http://www.partnersinhope.ca/life-with-god-in-recovery-resources/Audio for The Benefit Of Experience
Recent Meditations
Giving Hope
Partners in Hope is supported wholly by our friends and community. We are thankful to everyone who partners with us to help bring hope to the discouraged, hurting, and hopeless.