It’s so easy to fall right back into my old patterns. Someone can say one thing that reminds me of my past and trigger a negative reaction within me. Someone can look at me a certain way and it can evoke an emotion of hurt. Can you relate?
Relapse is defined as to fall or slip back into a former state, practice, etc. So, how can I prevent a relapse into my old reactions and patterns of behavior? The truth is a relapse is likely because I am human. I do my best every day, but I fall short sometimes. The difference now is I recognize it quicker. I have the tools to alter my actions and behavior. Tools I have been equipped with by walking the journey through the 12 steps.
Step 11 says,
“We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.”
Now that I have a new relationship with God as my Father, I seek His will for me daily. Each morning I spend at least 30 minutes in prayer, studying of His word in the Bible, and just being still in His presence. I have made it a point to reserve that time just for building my relationship with God and to worship Him. During this time, I learn about who God is and about His character. By studying the Bible, I am discovering new things every day.
Colossians 3:16 says,
“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
Daily reading of the Word of God helps to me to be equipped to handle any situation that comes my way. It is my handbook for life’s issues and it gives me instruction on God’s will for me. The Word of God shows me where I am flawed, but also shows me I am without blemish through Christ’s love. It teaches me how to just be still and listen to what God is saying to me through His Word. I have learned how to pray to God and have confidence He hears me. It helps me see when a relapse is present in my recovery.