Addiction recovery is seldom smooth and easy. Even in recovery, most of you have probably encountered a few rough patches or even a “slip” or two. It is our heartfelt prayer that you won’t give up, even though it may get difficult at times.
There were many periods over the years that Bruce would become discouraged and wonder if it was even possible to get to a place where the nagging temptations and periodic relapses would finally be gone.
In spite of his questions and slips, he absolutely refused to give up on his commitment to recovery. He discovered how to glean helpful information from his failures and how to turn more and more quickly toward God for the wisdom and courage he needed to keep moving forward.
In time, this combination of perseverance and surrendering HAS brought him to a place of true and lasting freedom. Tempting thoughts still pop up once in a while, but he is able to dismiss them as quickly as they came. They no longer haunt and taunt him. It has been years since he has even come close to slipping and, in his words, “it feels wonderful.”
So, if you’re still struggling from time to time, we encourage you to resist the urge to give up. The enemy will not win this battle . . . unless YOU decide to abandon the fight.
It can, admittedly, be slow-going and discouraging at times, but we know that, with the help of God and others, you CAN find the freedom that you seek.
” . . . let us run with perseverance the race that is marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” —Hebrews 12:1b-3
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