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Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
REFLECTION
Keep me grateful when I don’t know where to begin.
Often it seems impossible to maintain the levels of gratitude that appear to be necessary for sobriety and that come naturally for others.
There is much truth in these views. We prescribe it as an all-purpose remedy; we find that those who have it have a much better chance of staying sober.
As to the naturally grateful folks: it simply comes with practice. No one is joyful at all times without a concerted effort.
And we are actually instructed to aspire to that ideal.
What happens is that as time goes on and circumstances are endured, those who adopt an attitude of dependence on God and look for the good in all things, end up being able to preserve some gratitude in even the worst of situations.
Our attitude is proven to be our choice.
Despite our feelings, we can still display our deeper calling.
Despite our tempers, we can still bend our knees.
Despite our fears, we can still step into the light.
God, mold my heart that I may remain grateful.
NEXT STEPS
When you’re ready, here are some tools for you:
Book List (amazon link)
Some of my favorite reads related to recovery and/or wrestling with faith.4th Step Guide (free download)
A PDF with instructions and worksheets for a thorough 4th step. Straight from the Big Book. Fearlessness not included.12-Step Christianity (YouTube)
My thoughts on the parallels between discipleship and sponsorship.
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