Dealing With Denial

 Denial is described as a refusal to admit the truth or reality of a situation.  Denial is a coping mechanism people use to help them deal with uncomfortable memories or circumstances. 

Denial of our dependency on a substance and/or a person, is the first obstacle we must overcome in recovery.  Others may have identified the negative impact our dependency has on us, but we may continue to deny that a problem even exists.  Step One reminds us:  We admitted we were powerless over our dependency and that our life had become unmanageable.  Failure to acknowledge this keeps us from seeking the help we need and taking the necessary steps to get well. 

 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.  For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.  Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.  (Romans 7:18-20 NIV)

God calls us to live in truth.  When we put our faith and trust in Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us, and He will reveal the truth we need to acknowledge about ourselves.

 Jesus said, When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.  (John 16:13 NLT)

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Please reveal to me where I am vulnerable to denial of the truth and the effect it is having on my life and relationships.  Fill me with the life-giving truth of Your Word and help me to walk in Your ways.  I desire to be free from those things that hinder my life with You or my recovery. Amen 

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