Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering.  Hebrews 10:32  

When we have faith and come to believe that God can restore us, everything doesn’t magically turn around and become a happy scene from a Disney movie. Yes, we are new creations in Christ and our eternal salvation is secure, however we have a long, hard road ahead of us here on earth. It takes a lot of work, heartache and discipline to face the truth about ourselves and for our minds to be renewed and transformed. We have to be willing to let God takes us through the suffering, the fear, and the uncomfortable situations that will tempt us to return to the old, addictive coping and survival skills that got us into recovery in the first place. We usually have to see faith in Christ work and grow in others before our own faith matures into a practical, day to day faith that works.

A number of us went on a recent Men’s retreat that included a whitewater rafting trip on the Arkansas River in Colorado.  After much discussion and debate, it was decide that we would do the most intense whole day trip that included Class 5 rapids through the Royal Gorge, rather than the half day trip that only traversed Class 2 and 3 rapids.  Several of our group were nervous and apprehensive, just looking at the Class 2 and 3 rapids as we drove the road along the river seemed intimidating and scary.  When we got to the River Outfitter, the staff calmly and confidently explained the safety procedures and proper paddling techniques.  Our guide’s confidence, planning and experience put us all at ease, he had rafted the gorge nearly a hundred times.  We were able to relax and enjoy first the Class 2 and 3 rapids, and steadily grow in faith in our guide, our equipment and each other, until we were able to enjoy the challenges of the 4 and 5 rapids in the gorge itself.

A good Christ centered recovery group and sponsor are the same way.  At first it will seem extremely uncomfortable for us to let go of those old ways, those old habits, and believe that we can navigate the boulders and whirlpools of recovery, but when we find some accountability partners that are willing to paddle with us and a good sponsor to guide us through the steps, we see that this river of recovery can free us from our fears and allow us to meet the challenges of life with a new outlook, and enjoy a life that is fun, exhilarating and exciting.

What is our choice to be? Will we sit on the bank and never even attempt to face our hurts, habits and hang-ups? Will we try to run the gauntlet alone, without a guide, a support team and the right equipment?  Or will we get in the boat with other committed fellow travelers and a seasoned guide to lead us through the canyons?

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.  Hebrew 11:6  

Lord grant me the faith and wisdom to believe in you and in this recovery process, remove from me any doubt, fear, pride or prejudice that keep me from reaching out for help and guidance.

Today’s Daily Christian Recovery Devotional brought to you by Country Air.  Country Air provides air conditioning services in Magnolia, The Woodlands, North Harris Country and the surrounding area.

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