Addictions Recovery Through Faith-based Exercises

Having a spiritual dimension to recovery brings us closer to God and to those who mean so much to us. Recovery is a gift we can give to ourselves and to those who love us.

One principle to recovery is that of making amends. Consider the recovery principles of making amends through some of these biblically based practical exercise examples:

Like Saul, you can change

The apostles, who were Jesus' closest friends, were somewhat skeptical about the sincerity of Saul's change of heart. But you really can't blame them, can you? After all, a few weeks before that, Saul had done some terrible things for no other reason than that they acknowledged Jesus as the Savior.

It is likely you, too, will experience a bit of resistance from others-especially in the first year or so of your recovery. Those who have been affected by your past may find it difficult to accept that you are truly sincere in your recovery.

Their hesitation will undoubtedly be a bit hurtful, but don't let it get you down. Be like Saul-boldly and shamelessly proving that you are no longer the person you were before. Show them that person no longer exists.

Think about the following and record your thoughts in a journal.

1. Who has been hesitant to accept that my recovery is sincere? Why?
2. Is there anything I can do or say to make amends?
3. Who has been the most accepting of me since I have started the road to recovery?
4. What can I do to express my gratitude for their trust in me?

Learning from Adam

Adam was quick to blame both God and Eve for his disobedience... his sin. He blamed God for giving Eve to him and Eve for giving him the fruit. In both instances Adam was the recipient. He was given someone and something. But what Adam failed to admit is that he took what he was offered. He didn't own up to his responsibility for his role in what happened.

You and you alone have control over your thoughts and actions. Blaming others for your circumstances is counterproductive. Blaming others puts a huge roadblock making it impossible to move forward. Don't give someone else the power to decide what you do and say, or how far you grow. Instead, become one with the One who made you... God.

Think about the following:

1. Who and/or what do I blame for my problems?
2. How has blaming these people/things affected my life?
3. What do I need to do to be able to accept responsibility for my actions?
4. How will doing so change my attitude and my situation?

A brother forgiven

In the book of Genesis we read the account of twin brothers named Jacob and Esau. Jacob deceived both Esau and their father; causing their father to give Esau's inheritance to Jacob. Years later the two brothers met face to face. Prior to the meeting Jacob was fearful that Esau would take revenge on him. But when they met, Esau embraced his brother; telling him that what happened all those years ago didn't matter anymore. He had let go of his anger and resentment and was glad to see his brother again.

Are you holding on to any anger and resentment toward someone? If so, let it go. These things have no place in the heart or mind of someone trying to let go of a painful past.

The following 'to do' list may help:

1. Memorize Matthew 6:14-15. How do you feel knowing this is true?
2. Make a list of all the people you are holding grudges against.
3. Pray for these people and for yourself-to be able to let go of the grudge and anger you have.
4. Go to as many of these people as possible and tell them you are letting go of your anger and ask them to forgive you.

By working through practical exercises, principles like making amends, can be tackled. Examples from the Bible can be a helpful catalyst for practical enactment. Give them a try!

These and other biblically based practical exercise can be found in the author's book.