Knowing Freedom And A New Happiness

In the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous there is a section on making amends and sorting things out with our families.  In this section there is a paragraph naming twelve promises that we will celebrate “before we are half-way through.”  The first of these promises is, “We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness.”  Are these empty words, promises for the select few, or are they the on-going experience of old-timers of AA?  Is there a chance this can be a reality for me?

Christ has set us free to enjoy our freedom. So remain strong in the faith. Don’t let the chains of slavery hold you again.  (Galatians 5:1 NIRV) 

Memories from our past do not need to hold us down.  Fear of what others might say or do no longer needs to squeeze us into a mold that is something other than our true self.  God lives in us so we can carry the good news to others of how He changed us, and how He is ready to do that for anyone who comes to Him.  God will give us words to share that will comfort those who are sad and those who are caught in their own resentment and fears, even if their fear and bitterness was the result of their own doing. 

God is working in all of us today.  Our responsibility is to trust God, do our part, and then relax and enjoy the freedom and happiness we have been given.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for my sobriety and for the freedom to live in a new way of peace and blessing towards others.  Help me to stay strong, trusting You to continue to work in my life and, as I make amends, bring peace to the hearts of those I have harmed. In Your unfailing love and care for all of us, may we find true freedom and happiness.  Amen