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Character Strength Cooperation

Thursday January 4, 2024

Many of us in our life in addiction had our character shaped by isolation and getting our own way in any way that we could.  Now in recovery, it is challenging to live in agreement with people who have ideas and ways of doing things that are different from our own.  For healthy relationships to be formed and our sobriety sustained we will need to develop the character quality of cooperation.

Live in harmony with each other.  Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people.  And don’t think you know it all!  Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.  (Romans 12:16, Ephesians 4:3 NLT)

 

When we cooperate, we all work together towards a common goal.  This doesn't mean we all do or act the same. We each have our own personality and a role to play but we take time to listen to one another, to support each other, and together find a way to make things better for everyone involved.  Cooperation requires that we learn from others by letting go of our old way of thinking and behaving, and by allowing ourselves to try something new.  While we are working with others it is important not to hide in silence but to voice our opinion on an issue or ask a related question that will bring some fresh insight to a discussion or event.

How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!  (Psalm 133:1 NLT) 

Developing a pattern of cooperating with others will require us to communicate what we are feeling, and this should help us get over hurt feelings and approval seeking.  It may also require that we lay down a bullying attitude or a habit of yelling offensive words.  As we learn new ways of interacting with others God will strengthen and encourage us and bring us to that place of peace which surpasses all understanding. 

It’s not easy to find our place and be cooperative after being detached for so long, but the effect that a new way of living brings is certainly worth the effort.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, You made me to live in cooperation with others. Forgive me for the times I tirelessly voiced ‘my’ opinion while wanting ‘my’ will to be done, and for the many other ways I was hard to get along with. I ask for Your help to be cooperative with others and for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit to teach me ways I can build healthy relationships. Amen

 

Audio for Character Strength Cooperation

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