Growing Wise

Jesus is our role model for how to live well with God in recovery.  The Bible tells us that Jesus grew in wisdom as He studied the scriptures, prayed, and paid attention to what was going on in the world around Him. 

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.  (Luke 2:52 NLT)

Thank goodness we are not expected to know everything the first day we come into recovery.  We learn as we go.  We do that through studying and observing; through listening to others; through putting healthy principles into action; and even through our mistakes.  So, where do we start if we are to grow wise? 

The founders of the 12 Step program of A.A. got it right when they made Step One an admission that we are powerless on our own and without God our lives are unmanageable.  As we learn to respect and obey God in all our affairs the fog starts to lift, and the values we are being taught begin to make sense. 

Wise people who have walked with God in recovery for a time are valuable sources of wisdom and good advice.  We would do well to ask for and put into practice the guidance we receive.  This will prove to be wise when some of what we are hearing doesn’t seem to make much sense.  Sanity will always appear insane to those who are living in insanity.

Recovery is about growing up, about growing wise, about living in peace with God and others.  Am I willing to admit I don’t have all the answers?  Am I willing to study the Scriptures in the Bible and grow in wisdom as I obey what I am learning?

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, You know all things and are aware of what is still confusing to me about my past, my present, and my future.  Help me to be humble and learn from Your Word, Your Spirit, and from the wise people you have put in my path.  Amen

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