Living In Supportive Relationships

Even though we usually associate individuals living in addiction as “party people” the truth is that using substances generally takes away one’s ability to relate to other people, to form friendships, and to do meaningful things with them.  For a time, we think that drugs or alcohol will help lower our inhibitions and help us be the “life of the party.”  The truth is reliance on drugs or alcohol to help us cope with life will take us to a place of guilt, shame, and isolation.  As we live with God in recovery, He will show us how to truly be part of a group and have mutually enjoyable relationships.  

We find our self-worth and our identity in the love and care of God – the God who names us as His special treasure.  We belong to the family of God together with everyone else who belongs to God.  God fills our hearts with His love.  We need no longer seek affirmation from others in unhealthy ways.  

This transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but it does increase every day that we walk with God and with others who are seeking recovery.  As each person shares their experience, strength, and hope, we will find common experiences of vulnerability and joy that bind our hearts together as a group, a family, a people.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Thank You for inviting me into relationship with You and placing me in a family with others.  I now recognize that living in isolation is dark and depressing and, even though forming relationships may have its challenges, I know that You will help me make good choices when in community with others.  Thank You for caring for me.  Amen