We who have a history of substance abuse are prone to self-imposed
punishments. We must learn to combat the punitive habits and the self-condemnation.
Yes, there are some very real consequences to addiction which include things
like imprisonment, poverty, health issues, loss of jobs and relationships. But often
the most devastating consequences are the thoughts of self-hate and the
resistance against our own deserving of a good
life. We refuse to see that we can be restored.
I will always be a looser, we
think. I will always be a second class
citizen. We believe we have too much baggage.
We can never be like normal people
because we have to keep digging out of the pit from our consequences. We
believe that we don’t deserve a prosperous,
healthy, good life. We become recluse because our goal is to stay
away from places where respectable people go, like church. We even stay away
from the recovery groups that focus on restoration. Why bother, we think. I won’t ever measure up. Because of these
beliefs that grow out of self-rejection and shame, we stop trying. I have good news. If you want to grow spiritually, you can. If you desire to know God and His love, it is
actually simple. If you desire to love people and to be loved, there is a way. If
you desire to find a life that receives God’s goodness, it’s possible. If you want those things, you are considered
Blessed.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be
filled”. You only need desire. That’s all. If you want more, than you are
blessed. “Blessed are the poor in Spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
You
are far ahead of self-righteous believers who are content with their spirituality
if you see yourself as needy for God.
He will meet you where you are. He will meet you how and why you are. Try
him.
Matt. 5: 3 & 6
