Struggles with relationships, addictions, illness, and many other harsh realities of life are for some all they have known. We are desperate for a better life; some may want a new life. There are different struggles and yet we have the same solution-Jesus. Many in their desperation will turn to Jesus for help and for answers. That is just the beginning. There is an old hymn that says, “I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord. No tender voice like Thine, can peace afford. I need Thee, O I need Thee. Every hour I need Thee, O bless me now my Savior I come to Thee”. This is the rhythm we need to embrace in our life with Christ. It will look like daily prayer, Bible reading, connecting with God in ways that are personal. As we grow in our connection to Christ, we will understand our need for Him at the deepest level.
In addiction, one must ‘hit bottom’ -be completely done with the ‘drug of choice’ before recovery can begin. In recovery the phrase, ‘one day at a time’ is the rhythm one must take in this new life of sobriety. Daily surrender to a process that will ultimately become a lifestyle of recovery. Staying current with relationships, making amends, and carrying on the message of hope are all part of living in recovery. Maybe addiction isn’t your affliction. Replace that with pride, self-centeredness, materialism, (fill in the blank). We all need help with life. (And if you don’t think you do, that is a great starting point!)
- What strategies have you put in your daily routine that have created the life you live?
- If you don’t like your life, what is your plan for change? It may be time to ask for help to change your life. Awareness of the problem is the first step of change.
Maybe this is a time where things are going well, and you don’t feel a need to seek God.
This can be really a great time to begin to ask God, “Give me more of You”.
Many times, people seek help in a crisis and miss the opportunity for growth when the crisis has passed. Perhaps you can focus on gratitude for what God has done in your life.
- Ask God to reveal the places in your life that you need to grow and heal.
- What are you in need of from God today? Spend time asking God and writing down what comes to mind. You might know already what you need,
- Ask God for your next step. It could be to share with someone what you are going through. It could be seeking professional help.
Psalm 34:4-5 “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” This whole chapter of Psalms can be a great tool as you seek the Lord today, “those who seek the Lord lack no good thing”. (vs. 10). Thank God for his faithful love for us.
