Many of us, especially in early recovery, find it difficult to control our impulsive behaviour. Our history of relapses is a stark reminder of this fact. Sometimes relapse happens while we are doing well at holding back on the use of our additive substance, but then we begin to act out in other areas such as gambling, sex, rage, over-eating etc. To be successful in recovery we need to control the thoughts and emotions that drive our impulsive behaviour.
In the past you were slaves to sin—sin controlled you. But thank God, you fully obeyed what you were taught. You were made free from sin, and now you are slaves to what is right. (Romans 6:17-18 ERV)
Due to our previous lifestyle, it is probable that our brains have become incorrectly programmed about how to successfully live our lives. Our brains will need to be reprogrammed.
Be alert and think straight. Put all your hope in how kind God will be to you when Jesus Christ appears. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (1 Peter 1:13 CEV, Hebrews 12:11 NIV)
If we are to learn about controlling our impulses, the experience, strength, and hope of those who have walked this journey before us is important to seek out and put into practice. Others’ recovery in this area is a testament to what God can do and will give us hope that we also can learn to control our impulsive behaviour.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help me to grow in grace towards others and to be consistent in making choices for good reasons rather than acting impulsively on my emotions. Amen
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