I desire to stop participating in my addictions! When I participate in my addictions, there is enmity toward God and those I love. Enmity means, "hatred toward, hostility to, or a state of opposition." I know it is the power by which Satan wishes to reign over me. I also know that pride is competetive in nature and that my will in competition to God's will allows desires, appetities, and passions to go unbridled.
I know I must be stripped of pride to become clean. Pride and honesty cannot coexist. Pride is an illusion and is an essential element of addiction. Pride distorts the truth about things as they are, as they have been, and as they will be. It is a major obstacle to recovery.
I sometimes feel encompassed or trapped. I usually feel this way in the midst of overwhelming responsibilities. Sometimes, I just want the stimulation, or the escape. I note that when I'm lonely, tired, or feeling pain that I am in a weakened state and give-in to my addiction. I know that I must place my trust in God!!!
Be still; know that He is God.
One day at a time.
Pray sincerely.
Immerse myself in scripture study.
Perform service; do it out of love.
Keep all the commandments.
Keep a blog or journal; write it down.
Tags: StepOne Pride Recovery
I admit that I, by myself, am powerless to overcome my addictions and that my life has become unmanageable.
My addictions have provided stimulation or numbed painful feelings or moods. They have helped me avoid the problems I face, at least temporarily. For a while I felt free of stress, fear, worry, loneliness, discouragement, pain, regret, or boredom. I failed to recognize or admit that I had lost the ability to resist and abstain on my own.
"Addiction surrenders later freedom to choose. Through chemical means, one can literally become disconnected from his or her own will." -- Russell M. Nelson.
As my powerlessness over addiction increased, I found fault with my wife, parents, co-workers, friends, and even my children. I plunged into greater and greater isolation, seperating myself from others, and especially from God. I resorted to lies and secrecy, hoping to excuse myself or blame others. I weakened spiritually. With each act of dishonesty, I bound myself with flaxen cords taht eventually became strong as chains.
I realize how much my addictions have damaged relationships and robbed me of a sense of self-worth. I am not just dealing with a bad habit!!! My life has become unmanageable and I need help to overcome my addictions.
Tags: Addiction Recovery
