Recovery Steps

What might we need to recover from?  The summer message series has come from the world of recovery from addiction, most commonly involving abuse of alcohol and cocaine and opioids.  A medical authority’s more complete list includes tobacco, prescription drugs, marijuana, amphetamines, hallucinogens and inhalants.

But then, should we also include Impulse Control Disorders?  Examples: compulsive gambling, stealing (kleptomania), setting fires (pyromania), and outbursts of aggression.  Then there is the more common realm of behaviorial addictions.  These may involve compulsive eating (including anorexia), compulsive sexual activity, pornography use, all-night internet and video games, out-of-control shopping, “workaholism” and even obsessive exercise.

Such a list is likely to include some kind of possible addiction that hits close to home.  Not all bad habits or weaknesses are addictions.  Yet, the destructive potential of the examples above call us to ask, “What captivates me?  What drives me?”  

We are guided by Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians (to paraphrase):  We ask not just “Is this allowed?” but “Is it beneficial?”  Even if something is permitted, I will not be mastered by anything.  (And adding a word from Galatians:)  Christ has set us free so we may continue in freedom.  Let us not be enslaved by anything.  So we ask, “What tendencies or habits hinder me running the best race I can, toward the Lord’s goal-line?”

We continue considering the Recovery Steps into the fall season.  They are laced with biblically-based principles of honesty and self-awareness, humble faith,  turning from wrongs, seeking the Lord’s help and from others, forgiving and seeking forgiveness, pursuing our purpose and sharing our source of strength.  

Behind these is the understanding that success over addiction in any form is supported by overall healthy spiritual growth.  As a body fights disease not only with medicine to target the problem, but with a healthy diet, consistent exercise and sleep.  So we “recovering sinners” find the strength to say “no” when we need to, through the foundation of regular prayer and worship and fellowship, as we stay on course as Christ-followers.