It’s Not About Doing More: A Personal Journey Through Recovery
Recovery from addiction often feels like chasing an elusive formula. We seek systems, checklists, and solutions that promise freedom. But what if recovery isn’t about doing more? What if it’s about doing what truly matters—what aligns with God’s will for us at this moment?
The Myth of the Perfect Recovery System
For years, I searched tirelessly for the ultimate solution to addiction. I attended therapy, recovery groups, and training sessions. I devoured books, articles, and testimonials. Each time, I thought, This is it! This is the system that will fix me.
I made lists and checklists, imagining I could tick my way to recovery. But despite my best efforts, I repeatedly found myself back at square one. Every failure made me feel more broken, more convinced that I was somehow beyond help.
Example: Imagine downloading the latest recovery app or workbook. You follow every step meticulously for weeks, only to continue to relapse repeatedly and feel as though all the effort was wasted.
The frustration built as I watched others succeed while I stumbled. They seemed to have found "the secret." Why couldn’t I? Why couldn’t what worked for them work for me?
Why Others’ Recovery Stories Didn’t Work for Me
The Comparison Trap
I read testimonies of people who had overcome their addictions. Inspired, I’d try to emulate their methods. However, after some initial success, I would relapse, slipping back into old behaviors.
Example: A man shares how he overcame his addiction by waking up at 5 AM daily to read scripture and journal. Inspired, I adopted the same routine, but I felt disheartened when it didn’t lead to lasting change.
I began to believe I was uniquely flawed, incapable of true recovery. But despite the setbacks, I kept trying—stubbornly holding on to hope.
The Missing Piece
What I didn’t realize then was that recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. What worked for others wasn’t necessarily what I needed. While their tools were helpful, my journey required something more personal: aligning my efforts with God’s guidance for my life.
From the Therapist’s Chair: Why Knowledge Isn’t Enough
The Disconnect Between Reasons and Results
As a therapist, I’ve worked with countless individuals battling addictions—pornography, drugs, alcohol, and more. Many of them could articulate exactly why they wanted to change:
“I want to save my marriage.”
“I’m worried about my kids finding out.”
“I want to honor God.”
They could list the consequences of their actions and sincerely want to quit. Yet, knowledge alone wasn’t enough to create lasting change.
Example: A client explained that his wife has given him an ultimatum: quit pornography or the marriage is over. He understood the stakes but continued to struggle because his recovery efforts lacked spiritual alignment.
The Turning Point
For each person, there is always a moment when something shifts. Sometimes, a sudden realization; other times, a gradual shift. The common thread? Recovery begins to work when we stop trying to do more and start doing what truly matters for our specific journey.
Revelation: Recovery Is Doing What God Asks
The Moment of Clarity
In one of my lowest moments, I prayed in frustration. I had done everything “right” and still felt stuck. During this moment of despair, I felt a powerful impression: It’s not about doing more.
The realization struck me deeply. Recovery wasn’t about exhausting myself with endless tasks. It was about aligning my efforts with God’s will.
Scriptural Insight: Like Lehi’s family in the wilderness, our recovery journey isn’t a straight line. Lehi’s family relied on the Liahona, a compass that worked only as they exercised faith and instructions were updated as they went. Similarly, our path to recovery requires faith and a willingness to follow God’s guidance, even when it means changing direction along the way.
God’s Role in Your Recovery
Trusting in His Plan
God doesn’t expect perfection—He expects faith. He loves us deeply and wants us to reach the “promised land” of recovery.
Example: Imagine a father teaching his child to walk. When the child stumbles, the father doesn’t reprimand them; he encourages them to try again. God approaches our recovery the same way, cheering us on with love and patience understanding we won’t be perfect in this life.
The Power of Daily Revelation
Recovery isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about seeking God’s guidance daily, moment by moment.
Exercise: Each time you are struggling, ask God in prayer: “What is one thing I can do now to align my recovery with Your will?” Write down the impressions you receive and act on them.
Tools for Your Recovery Journey
Recovery Is Personal
Over the years, I’ve gathered tools and resources that have helped me and others. But remember: you don’t need to use them all. The key is seeking God’s guidance to determine what’s right for you at this moment, apply it to your life, and put it into practice.
Practical Tools to Consider
Scripture Study: Reflect on passages that inspire hope and healing.
Example: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Journaling: Write about your struggles, prayers, and impressions. This practice can help you identify patterns and track spiritual growth.
Accountability Partners: Share your journey with someone you trust who can offer support and encouragement.
Professional Therapy: Work with a therapist who understands addiction and can provide evidence-based tools tailored to your needs.
Recovery Groups: Join faith-based or secular groups where you can find solidarity and support.
Digital Boundaries: Use technology to create safeguards, such as content filters or app blockers, to reduce temptation.
Applying What You Learn
The most important tool in recovery is seeking and following God’s guidance. As you explore these tools, prayerfully consider:
“What do I need to focus on today?”
“Which tools will help me take the next step?”
Conclusion: It’s About Trusting God, Not Doing More
Recovery isn’t about checking off a to-do list or trying to mimic someone else’s success. There is no one-size-fits-all recovery plan. It’s about trusting God, seeking His guidance, and doing what He asks of you in each moment.
Just as Lehi’s family navigated the wilderness by faith, we can navigate the challenges of addiction by following God’s compass. He doesn’t expect perfection—He expects progress. And as we take each step in faith, He will guide us to the promised land of healing and freedom.
FAQs on Recovery
1. How do I know if I’m doing what God wants in my recovery?
Seek daily revelation through prayer and scripture study. Trust the impressions you receive, even if they’re small or unexpected. As you notice the “tender mercies of the Lord” you will know He is guiding you in recovery.
2. What if I keep relapsing despite my best efforts?
For many, relapse is part of the recovery journey. Instead of focusing on failure, learn from the experience and recommit to the process. Remember that the fall and our weakness is part of God’s overall plan for us to learn and grow.
3. Are professional tools and spiritual practices mutually exclusive?
Not at all. Combining professional tools like therapy with spiritual practices can create a holistic approach to recovery.
4. How can I stay motivated during hard times?
Focus on the progress you’ve made rather than the distance left to go. Celebrate every victory in recovery and growth, and remember that God is with you every step of the way.
5. How do I know if I’m ready to share my journey with others?
For support, seek help every step of the way with people who love you and have your best interests at heart. To support others, share when you feel confident in your progress and sense that sharing your story could help others. Prayerfully consider the timing and audience.
