THE PURITY PROJECT OF OKLAHOMA CITY PRESENTS

ADMITTING NEED
MENTORING AND RECOVERY SERIES, WORKBOOK 1

By David Lowry, Ph. D.

Admitting Need is the first in a series of nine study manuals designed to assist those enrolled in faithbased recovery programs. These lessons were produced for the Purity Project by Dr. David N. Lowry
The Purity Project of Oklahoma Cityhttp://www.purityprojectokc.com

Copyright 2009 David Lowry. All rights reserved. Other Workbooks in this series: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Admitting Need Getting Help Letting Go Coming Clean Making Changes New Attitudes Repairing Relationships Maintaining Momentum Recycling Pain

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction and Overview ........................................................................................................................... vii About This Course ..................................................................................................................................... vii What You Will Do ...................................................................................................................................... vii What You Will Need .................................................................................................................................. vii Celebrate Recovery's 8 Principles ............................................................................................................. viii The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous .............................................................................................. ix Lesson 1 Doing What I Do Not Want to Do ................................................................................................... 1 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 1 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................... 3 Recovery Wisdom ....................................................................................................................................... 4 Self-History Assignment: Part 1 .................................................................................................................. 4 Recovery Reading ....................................................................................................................................... 4 Lesson 2 The Reality Choice........................................................................................................................... 5 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 5 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................... 7 Recovery Wisdom ....................................................................................................................................... 8 Self-History Assignment: Part 2 .................................................................................................................. 8 Recovery Reading ....................................................................................................................................... 8 Lesson 3 God Can Change My Life ................................................................................................................. 9 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 9 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 11 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 12 Self-History Assignment: Part 3 ................................................................................................................ 12 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 12 Lesson 4 Drawing Near To God .................................................................................................................... 13

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Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 13 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 15 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 16 Self-History Part Assignment: 4 ................................................................................................................ 16 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 16 Lesson 5 Our Lives Had Become Unmanageable ......................................................................................... 17 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 17 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 19 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 20 Self-History Assignment: Part 5 ................................................................................................................ 20 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 20 Lesson 6 Taking Step One ............................................................................................................................ 21 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 21 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 23 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 24 Self-History Assignment: Part 6 ................................................................................................................ 24 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 24 Lesson 7 Come Now, Let Us Reason Together............................................................................................ 25 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 25 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 27 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 28 Self-History Assignment: Part 7 ................................................................................................................ 28 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 28 Lesson 8 Admitting Our Powerlessness ....................................................................................................... 29 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 29 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 31 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 32

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Self-History Assignment: Part 8 ................................................................................................................ 32 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 32 Lesson 9 Surrender ...................................................................................................................................... 33 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 33 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 35 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 36 Self-History Assignment: Part 9 ................................................................................................................ 36 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 36 Lesson 10 Denial .......................................................................................................................................... 37 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 37 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 39 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 40 Self-History Assignment: Part 10 .............................................................................................................. 40 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 40 APPENDIXES .................................................................................................................................................. 41 APPENDIX 1: Prayer of Repentance ......................................................................................................... 42 APPENDIX 2: Denial ................................................................................................................................. 43 APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 1 ........................................................................................ 46 APPENDIX 4: Self-History Assignment ...................................................................................................... 48 Part 1, My Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 48 Part 2, My Childhood Years .................................................................................................................. 49 Part 3, What It Was Like To Be Me ....................................................................................................... 50 Part 4, My Unique and Unusual Qualities ............................................................................................ 51 Part 5, Descriptions of My Parents ....................................................................................................... 52 Part 6, My Faith and Religion ............................................................................................................... 53 Part 7, My Hurts, Habits and Hang-Ups ................................................................................................ 54 Part 8, Losses Ive Suffered ................................................................................................................... 55

Part 9, My Greatest Challenges ............................................................................................................ 56 Part 10, My Dreams .............................................................................................................................. 57

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INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

Hello, Im David Lowry. On behalf of all of us here at Eagle Ministries, I would like to welcome you to a new and exciting adventureyour recovery! It is no accident that you are here. Though it may seem coincidental to you, we believe your arrival is the result of a divine appointment that was planned long ago by our heavenly Father. We are pleased that you are here and we are happy to walk this road along side of you. We have created a series of workbooks to help guide your study of recovery during your stay with us.

ABOUT THIS COURSE

The series we have created is a self-paced, Christ centered, intensive Step Study program. Our lessons blend the tried and true steps of Celebrate Recovery and well proven Twelve-Step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous. The entire course takes a minimum of 90 days to complete. Properly followed, this program will lead you to happier life of sanity and sobriety. This first book, Admitting Need, will be your companion during the first ten lessons. Thereafter, you will receive a new book every 10 lessons designed to carry you to the next level in your recovery. Our hope and prayer is not only for your recovery; but, that youll be able to help others recover as well. Whatever pain you may be experiencing right now, just know that in time, God can and will redeem your struggles so that he might deliver others. In the meantime, we encourage you to work this program with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. While we are here to help you each step of the way, only you can decide how hard you will work. Remember, this is your recovery; and, you cant get what you dont put in. But, if you work really hard at your studies, as well as the rest of your work here at Eagle Ministries, youll get more back than you put in. Thats because Jesus, our Savior and older brother, will see to it that you are richly rewarded for your efforts to follow him. He will pay you back with interest!

WHAT YOU WILL DO

This course is based upon reading, reflection and writing. Each day you work the lessons you will be asked to reflect and respond to scriptures and recovery principles. And, during each 10 lesson cycle, youll be working upon important assignments that are designed to help speed you through your recovery.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

In addition to the workbook, you will need the following books: Lifes Healing Choices: Freedom from Your Hurts, Hang -Ups and Habits by John Baker A Hunger for Healing: the Twelve Steps as a Classic Model for Christian Spiritual Growth by J. Keith Miller The Steps We Took by Joe McQ

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Introduction

CELEBRATE RECOVERY'S 8 PRINCIPLES

R = REALIZE I'm not God. I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. "Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor." E = EARNESTLY believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that He has the power to help me recover. "Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." C = CONSCIOUSLY choose to commit all my life and will to Christ's care and control. "Happy are the meek." O = OPENLY examine and confess my faults to God, to myself, and to another person whom I trust. "Happy are the pure in heart." V = VOLUNTARILY submit to any and all changes God wants to make in my life and humbly ask him to remove my character defects. "Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires." E = EVALUATE all my relationships. Offer forgiveness to those who have hurt me and make amends for harm I've done to others, except when to do so would harm them or others. "Happy are the merciful." "Happy are the peacemakers." R = RESERVE a daily time with God for self-examination, Bible reading, and prayer in order to know God and His will for my life and to gain the power to follow His will. Y = YIELD myself to God to be used to bring this Good News to others, both by my example and by my words. "Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires."

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Introduction

THE TWELVE STEPS OF ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Step 1 - We admitted we were powerless over our addiction - that our lives had become unmanageable Step 2 - Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity Step 3 - Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God Step 4 - Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves Step 5 - Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs Step 6 - Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character Step 7 - Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings Step 8 - Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all Step 9 - Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others Step 10 - Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it Step 11 - Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God's will for us and the power to carry that out Step 12 - Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to other addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs

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LESSON 1

DOING WHAT I DO NOT WANT TO DO

Have you ever wondered why hurts, habits and hang-ups are so difficult to stop doing? It seems that no matter how many times we try and quit or stop doing them, it isnt long before we start repeating the same old patterns that harm others and us. The Bible and Step One, has an answer for you. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

Lesson 1

REFLECTION: THE FIRST WORDS OF STEP ONE SAYS, I ADMIT. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST TEN THINGS ABOUT YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION THAT ARENT WORKING THE WAY YOU WISH. 2. IN YOUR OWN WORDS, EXPLAIN HOW MATTHEW 5.3 APPLIES TO THE LIST YOU HAVE MADE. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 1

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Romans 7:15-20 15 For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. 16 Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. 17 So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. 18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. Proverbs 1:20 20 Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, 1. WRITE HOW THESE SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR LIFE. 2. MAKE A LIST OF TEN DESTRUCTIVE THINGS THAT YOU FIND YOURSELF DOING THAT YOU DO NOT WANT TO DO. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 1

RECOVERY WISDOM "Resentment is the number one offender." ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 1

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 1. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING Life's Healing Choices, Introduction p. 1-10 IN THE SPACE BELOW, WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. 1. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE. 2. THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 2

LESSON 2

THE REALITY CHOICE

The world we live in tells us that we have the power to do to do anything we choose to do. The truth is, we have very little power over ourselves and absolutely no power at all over other people except through force or coercion. If we are honest, we find that most situations are outside of our sphere of control. In our own lives, we soon discover that our actions have consequences that are beyond our control. When we choose to drink, gamble, get angry, and so on, we cannot control the outcomes or consequences of what we have done. Even when we try to control our actions, we find that we are unable to consistently keep doing whats good for us. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

Lesson 2

REFLECTION: STEP ONE STATES THAT, I AM POWERLESS. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST AND GIVE FIVE EXAMPLES OF THINGS YOU ARE POWERLESS TO CONTROL OR OVERCOME. 2. WRITE HOW THESE STEPS AND SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 2

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Mark 11:22-23 22 And Jesus answered them, Have faith in God. 23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, Be taken up and thrown into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Proverbs 3:5-6 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. COMPARE THE PROMISES OF MARK AND PROVERBS WITH THE WAY YOU HAVE BEEN LIVING YOUR LIFE. BE SPECIFIC AND GIVE EXAMPLE. 2. EXPLAIN HOW THESE SCRIPTURES MIGHT APPLY TO THE NEW LIFE YOU WANT TO LIVE. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 2

RECOVERY WISDOM If you dont want to slip, stay away from slippery places. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 2

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 2. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING Lifes Healing Choices, Choice 1, p. 13-26 WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 3

LESSON 3

GOD CAN CHANGE MY LIFE

An age old questions asks if humankind is good or evil. What Step One teaches is that all of us have tendencies to behave in ways that are destructive. For those of us with addictions and compulsions, our tendencies usually lead to ruin. As the old saying goes, Our best thinking is what got us here in the first place. If we are to make progress in our recovery, it is important for us to realize that we have destructive tendencies; and then, with Gods help, identify and root them out. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

Lesson 3

REFLECTION: STEP ONE STATES THAT, I AM POWERLESS TO CONTROL MY TENDENCY.... IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST AND GIVE SIX EXAMPLES OF TENDENCIES YOU HAVE THAT YOU BELIEVE ARE UNPRODUCTIVE FOR YOU. 2. IF, WITH GODS HELP YOU COULD REPLACE THESE TENDENCIES WITH ANOTHER CHARACTERISTIC, WHAT WOULD IT BE? 3. WRITE HOW THESE STEPS AND SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR TENDENCY TO DO THE WRONG THING? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 3

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Philippians 4:13 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Proverbs 4:23 23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, EXPLAIN HOW THESE SCRIPTURES MIGHT BE APPLIED TO YOUR, TENDENCY TO DO THE WRONG THING BE SPECIFIC AS YOU EXPLAIN HOW THIS MIGHT WORK. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 3

RECOVERY WISDOM If you do what you always did, youll get what you always got. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 3

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 3. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING Lifes Healing Choices, Choice 1, p. 27-35 WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 4

LESSON 4

DRAWING NEAR TO GOD

Even though we have natural inclinations to do destructive thingsand are powerless to change our livesall is not lost. There is a power that is greater than ourselves that saves us when we cannot save ourselves. The first thing we must do to tap into this power is to admit to God, ourselves and others that we are powerless to do the right thing. The next thing is to begin repenting of the harmful things we have done to others and ourselves. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 4

REFLECTION: STEP ONE DISCUSSES THAT WE DO WRONG THINGS. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST AND GIVE TEN EXAMPLES OF WRONG THINGS YOU HAVE DONE IN YOUR RECENT PAST. 2. CONSIDER THIS SCRIPTURE:
Acts 3:19-20 19 Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.

IF YOU ARE SORRY FOR THE WRONG THINGS YOU HAVE DONE, NOT ONLY THESE BUT OTHERS AS WELL, WE INVITE YOU TO PRAY THE PRAYER OF REPENTANCE FOUND IN THE APPENDIX OF THIS WORKBOOK. 3. IF YOU WISH, WRITE A BRIEF PRAYER OF REPENTANCE USING YOUR OWN WORDSKNOWING THAT GOD WILL HEAR AND ANSWER YOU. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 4

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Hebrews 11:6 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Proverbs 5:21 21 For a mans ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, 1. WRITE HOW THESE SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR LIFE. 2. HOW DOES REPENTING OF OUR SINS HELP US TO DRAW NEAR TO GOD? 3. HOW DOES REPENTING OF OUR SINS RELATE TO PROVERBS 5:21? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 4

RECOVERY WISDOM

One drink is too many and a thousand not enough.

________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY PART ASSIGNMENT: 4

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 4. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING

A Hunger for Healing, Chapter 2, p. 12-19

WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 5

LESSON 5

OUR LIVES HAD BECOME UNMANAGEABLE

When we are caught in a compulsive and addictive lifestyle, we become blind to the fact that our lives are not working the way they should. Most people in this situation will continue in their destructive patterns until some catastrophe happens to clearly illustrate that changes are in order. Todays lesson is designed to help you reflect upon the different areas of your life that have become unmanageable. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 5

REFLECTION: STEP ONE STATES THAT OUR LIVES HAD BECOME UNMANAGEABLE. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST AND GIVE EXAMPLES OF FIVE AREAS IN YOUR LIFE THAT HAVE BECOME UNMANAGEABLE (ADDICTIONS, FINANCES, RELATIONSHIPS, ETC.). BE SPECIFIC. 2. WHAT SIGNS, SMALL OR LARGE, HAPPENED THAT MIGHT HAVE WARNED YOU THAT YOUR LIFE WAS UNMANAGEABLE? 3. WHAT DOES ROMANS 7:18 SAY IS THE REASON WHY OUR LIVES ARE UNMANAGEABLE? 4. IF YOU DIDNT HAVE AN ADDICTION, WOULD YOUR LIFE STILL BE UNMANAGEABLE? EXPLAIN YOUR ANSWER. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 5

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Colossians 1:13-14 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Proverbs 4:7 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, EXPLAIN HOW TODAYS SCRIPTURES RELATES TO THE CONCEPT THAT MY LIFE HAD BECOME UNMANAGEABALE. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 5

RECOVERY WISDOM

Recovery is a process and it begins with the first step.

________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 5

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 5. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING A Hunger for Healing, Chapter 2, p. 19-27 WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 6

LESSON 6

TAKING STEP ONE

When we enter a recovery program, we are tempted to think that the Steps are only for our addictions. The truth is our addictions are the result of our tendencies that, in turn, cause us to act out. Step One should be used for anything and everything that isnt working in our lives! Todays lesson is designed to cause you to reflect on additional areas in your life that need Step One. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 6

REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST AND DESCRIBE FIVE AREAS OF YOUR LIFE WHERE YOU NEED TO TAKE STEP ONE. 2. USING YOUR OWN WORDS, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE POOR IN SPIRIT? 3. HOW CAN YOU MAKE THE POOR IN SPIRIT QUALITY A PART OF YOUR LIFE? 4. WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, THAT MATTHEW 5:3 TALKS ABOUT? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 6

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION 2 Timothy 2:22 22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Proverbs 4:23 23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW THESE SCRIPTURES COULD BE APPLIED TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. 2. HOW DO TODAYS SCRIPTURES RELATE TO STEP ONE? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 6

RECOVERY WISDOM

If Im feeling hysterical, it must be historical

________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 6

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 6. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING

A Hunger for Healing, Chapter 2, p. 28-30

ANSWER ANY FIVE OF THE TEN QUESTIONS FOUND ON PAGE 28 30. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 7

LESSON 7

COME NOW, LET US REASON TOGETHER

We once thought it was reasonable for US to control our lives. These past few days we have learned that WE are powerless. The beginning of sanity and reason is to understand that only God has the power to change our lives for the good. It is good news indeed to know that he wants to do this. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 7

REFLECTION: FOR THE PAST SEVERAL DAYS WE HAVE BEEN EXPLORING THE MEANING OF STEP 1. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. SINCE YOU BEGAN THIS STUDY, HAVE YOU COME TO A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN ADMIT TO GOD, YOURSELF, AND OTHER PEOPLE, YOUR POWERLESSNESS TO CONTROL YOUR TENDENCY TO DO THE WRONG THING AND THAT YOUR LIFE IS UNMANAGEABLE? 2. DESCRIBE HOW YOU DID THIS. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 7

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Isaiah 1:18 18 Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. Proverbs 12:22 22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF THESE SCRIPTURES APPLIES TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. 2. HOW DO TODAYS SCRIPTURES APPLY TO STEP ONE? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 7

RECOVERY WISDOM

You only get out of life and recovery what you put into it.
________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 7

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 7. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING

A Hunger for Healing, Chapter 2, p. 28-30

ANSWER ANY FIVE OF THE TEN QUESTIONS FOUND ON PAGE 28 30. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 8

LESSON 8

ADMITTING OUR POWERLESSNESS

Where did we ever get the idea that WE are in control our own lives and destiny? Doesnt this idea come from the world? But when we objectively look about us, isnt it clear that the world is in a huge mess? Everywhere we turn we see unspeakable violence and tragedy as humans do their best to control others. There is another wayto assume our proper role in Gods scheme. Through surrender, we allow Gods power to do its righteous work through us. Todays lesson is designed to cause you to reflect upon the differences between man and Gods ideas about power. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 8

REFLECTION: IT IS HARD TO ADMIT WE ARE POWERLESS. IN FACT, IT RUNS COUNTER TO EVERY THING THE WORLD SAYS ABOUT TAKING CONTROL OF OUR LIVES. IN THE SPACE BELOW:
1.

WRITE FIVE THINGS THE WORLD TEACHES ABOUT BEING POWERFUL AND CONTRAST THAT WITH WHAT STEP ONE TEACHES US ABOUT BEING POWERLESS.
Example: People in the world about us say that we can solve any personal problem we have if we just try hard enough. Step One teaches us that we are not able to overcome our problems on our own.

USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 8

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION 2 Corinthians 5:17 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. Proverbs 14:9 9 Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF THESE SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. 2. HOW DO TODAYS SCRIPTURES APPLY TO POWERLESSNESS SPOKEN ABOUT IN STEP ONE? (Hint: In Proverbs 14:9, the guilt offering for us today is the death of Jesus on
the crosswhich he did to save us from our sins.) 3.

IF WE ARE POWERLESS, WHAT POWER WILL HELP US OVERCOME OUR ADDICTIVE AND COMPULSIVE BEHAVIORS?

USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 8

RECOVERY WISDOM If drinking doesnt bring you to your knees, sobriety will. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 8

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 8. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING

The Steps We Took, Step 1, p. 17 - 22

WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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LESSON 9

SURRENDER
God is a gentleman. Though he is all powerful, he never forces his will upon us. He allows us to choose between our ways or hiseven when he knows that our ways will lead to destruction. There are no two ways with God. We either choose our ways or his. If we want Gods power to deliver us from our pain, we must surrender our ways of doing things and begin doing things his way. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 9

REFLECTION: IF WE ARE POWERLESS, WE MAY AS WELL SURRENDER. THE QUESTION IS, WILL WE SURRENDER TO GOD OR TO SATAN? IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN WHY SURRENDER IS SO IMPORTANT FOR US. 2. IN YOUR OWN WORDS, DESCRIBE HOW ONE SURRENDERS TO GOD. 3. HAVE YOU DONE THE THINGS YOU HAVE DESCRIBED? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 9

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Psalm 103:12 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. Proverbs 6:27 27 Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF TODAYS SCRIPTURES RELATE TO THE CONCEPT OF SURRENDER. 2. APPLY THESE SCRIPTURES TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 9

RECOVERY WISDOM You are 3 people: Who you think you are. Who other people think you are. Who you really are. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 9

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 9. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING

The Steps We Took, Step 1, p. 23 - 25

WRITE THREE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM TODAYS READINGS. WRITE THE PAGE NUMBER AND QUOTE, THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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LESSON 10

DENIAL
An important recovery concept is denial. Denial is the inability we have to admit that our lives arent working even when faced with evidence to the contrary. Denial is a mechanism that keeps us from getting better by making excuses for the things we do and blaming others for the problems we face. This lesson will help us learn more about this important concept. STEP REFLECTION I admit that I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and that my life is unmanageable. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 1) Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We admitted we were powerless over our sin-that our lives had become unmanageable. (Step 1 of the 12 Steps) Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.

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Lesson 10

REFLECTION: FOR MANY OF US, IT WAS HARD FOR US TO SEE, MUCH LESS ADMIT, THAT WE WERE POWERLESS, DOING THE WRONG THINGS, AND THAT OUR LIVES WERE UNMANAGEABLE. OUR INABILITY TO SEE AND ADMIT THIS IS CALLED DENIAL. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. DESCRIBE SEVEN SEPARATE SITUATIONS OR TIMES THAT YOU WERE IN DENIAL. WHAT EVIDENCE WAS THERE TO SUGGEST THAT YOUR LIFE HAD BECOME UNMANAGEABLE?
Example: I was staying up late five and six hours each night viewing internet pornography. I could not see that this was a problem even though I was tired and listless each day because I had very little sleep.

USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 10

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Daniel 9:9 9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him Proverbs 4:7 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. ________________________________________ REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF TODAYS SCRIPTURES RELATE TO THE CONCEPT OF DENIAL. 2. APPLY THESE SCRIPTURES TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 10

RECOVERY WISDOM F E A R = False Expectations Appearing Real ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT: PART 10

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 10. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF YOU HAVE THE TIME.

RECOVERY READING GO TO THE APPENDIX AND READ THE ARTICLE ON DENIAL. WRITE FIVE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM READING IT. WRITE THE QUOTE AND THEN EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED.

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APPENDIXES
APPENDIX 1: Prayer of Repentance ............................................................................................................. 42 APPENDIX 2: Denial ..................................................................................................................................... 43 APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 1 ................................................................................................ 46 APPENDIX 4: Self-History Assignment .......................................................................................................... 48

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APPENDIX 1: PRAYER OF REPENTANCE

This Christian prayer of repentance was written by Reverend James Gibbons (1884). Prayer of Repentance O my God, I am heartily sorry for Having offended Thee, And I detest all my sins, Because I dread the loss of heaven, And the pains of hell; But most of all because They offend Thee, my God, Who are all good and Deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, With the help of Thy grace To confess my sins, To do penance And to amend my life. Amen.

--Reverend James Gibbons (1884)

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APPENDIX 2: DENIAL By David Lowry Show me a person who is addicted to anything: alcohol, gambling, anger, pornography--or who acts on compulsions that they know they shouldnt, and Ill show you a person who is in denial. Denial is defined as the refusal to acknowledge the existence or severity of unpleasant external realities or internal thoughts and feelings. Those of us who have been involved in our addictive behaviors will testify that we found it very difficult to believe that we were harming ourselves and others through our behaviors. What is painfully obvious to others is hidden from our view. In my case, at the height of my addiction to internet pornography, I became sleep deprived after viewing pornography from anywhere between 4 and 6 hours a day; constantly thinking about sex and the next time I could find pornography; hiding sexual materials on the computer and around the house; and not able to see any woman without thinking what she would be like sexually. I behaved resentfully to my wife and was angry inside. My marriage was crumbling, I felt miserable and isolated; yet through it all, I could not admit that I had problems or admit that any of the problems I faced were directly related to what I had been doing Denial is powerful and deadly. It deadened our emotions and our abilities to see clearlyuntil its too late. What is your addiction? At the height of your addiction, what were you doing? Here are some indicators that we are in denial: 1. We are in denial when we cannot see that what we do is harmful to ourselves and others. Yes, we may admit that behaviors we participate in could be a possible problem for someone else; but, we usually cannot see the terrific harm it is bringing upon us. We cannot see the toll that is taking place through the time that we waste, the excessive egos, and the withdrawal of our feelings from those who are nearest to us. We may convince ourselves that our habits are secret by hiding our incriminating evidence. During all of this, we cannot see that our thoughts have become so warped that we justify placing our marriages at risk, by lying, cheating and hiding what we do from others. 2. We are in denial about the harm we cause others when we act out on our compulsions and addictions. One of the largest denials of all is the belief that no one can be harmed by our secrets. We reason, If no one can know what we are doing, how can they be harmed? We are like the teenager, who once they start using drugs, cannot see the dramatic shift taking
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APPENDIX 2: Denial

place in their personalities. Like them, our personalities change in dramatic ways when we indulge in our drug of choice! We dont realize how different we become toward others. We cannot see the selfishness and rudeness of behavior. We think were the same person we always were. While it is true that others may not know what is going on in our livesthey can see the resulting selfishness of our behaviors and the change for the worse in our personalities. We become takers instead of givers. We become resentful that those close to us dont meet our needs (as we perceive them). We dont see our part of the problems we have between people. Even if we have been involved in our compulsions since our partners have known us, we cannot see the escalation that is taking place within. But actually, the only persons we are fooling are ourselves. 3. We are in denial and cannot see the harm we bring to our families or loved ones. We always risk being found out and losing credibility with our families when we participate in our addiction. The fact that we are willing to risk this is an indication of our sickness. The fact that we are willing to risk breaking the hearts of those who love us speaks to our denial. Many of us actually believe that we cannot ever be found out. There is arrogance in that kind of attitude; and of course, a denial of our arrogance. We become so self-centered that we cannot understand that the time we spend satisfying our cravings outside of our relationship is time that could have been used for emotional connection, working on our relationships, helping our families, working on our development and so on. 4. We are in denial that our minds and emotions are being harmed. We think we can drink in whatever it is that we do and act out on our compulsions for hours at a time and not harm our minds or emotions. We think we are immune to problems of thinking though we admit that others might have a problem. For many of us, at the height of our addiction, our minds were constantly thinking of our addiction and the next time we could have our fix; yet, we couldnt see that our thinking was skewed. We felt justified in the anger and resentments we held towards our partners. We saw our behaviors as justifiable and as an understandable reaction to their lack of care and appreciation towards us. Again, we did not see that our choice in holding to these negative emotions could cause pain to others as well as ourselves. 5. We were in denial that our secret addiction impacted our behaviors towards others. Have you ever told yourself that you would not act out on your anger only to discover that you act out in some other way? Thats the way it is with an addiction. Even though we are keeping it secret, it has ways of coming out when we least expect it. It can show itself in the form of angry outbursts, selfishness, denying our loved ones the emotional comfort they seek from us and our willingness to detach mentally and emotionally from those around us. 6. We are in denial when we think that no one will ever know.

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APPENDIX 2: Denial

Actually, it takes a certain amount of arrogance to think that we can do anything without anyone finding out. It happens all the time and it is a matter of when you get caughtnot if you get caught! Secrets dont stay secret. Our behaviors betray us. When our attitudes change, people get curious. If we are seen in publicsomeone knows. 7. We are in denial if we think that we can stop doing what we do on our own. It would be nice if we could heal ourselves just by deciding to stop. Everybody I know thats been through this stopped hundreds and thousands of times. The problem is, we cant stay stopped! The AA saying that you are as sick as your secrets is a true one. If you want to be free, you must seek help from someone other than yourself. 8. We are in denial when we think that we can be okay with our addiction. While I was in the middle of this sexual addiction I had a sister that was addicted to crack. She became so dependent that she became delusional and had hallucinations during her daily life. One day I was called by a desperate neighbor who told me she was banging on her neighbors windows and desperately trying to warn them of the dangers that she saw through her hallucinations. Because of her irrational behavior, she had to be committed. Ill always remember her sadly saying to me, I dont know why people cant just leave me alone. Im not hurting anybody. Her denial was so strong that she couldnt see the harm she was doing to herself, the frustration she had become to her neighbors, the nuisance that she had become when the police had to be called or the concern that all of us had in our family over her sad plight. The same is true with us. Most of us have become extremely self-centered, deceptive about our time and money and relationships, ignore those who are close to usor treat them badly, and we become more isolated in our thinking. The evidence is clear. Too many studies have been done that charts the progress of the addict. 9. We are in denial when we dont consider our addictions as harmful to our close relationships. What we do impacts more than ourselves. It impacts those closest to us. 10. We are in denial if we think we are spiritually okay while we practice our addictions. We are never more selfish and self-serving than when we are caught in the grip of an addiction. Our actions hurt ourselves and others. We become secretive and deceptive about our time, energy and money. We do things that would bring shame and embarrassment to our spiritual communities. We become the hypocrite claiming to be one thing while practicing another. These are not the behaviors of a spiritual personthey are the behaviors of one who has lost their way and has gone off of their path towards a close relationship with God that can bring others to Him.

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APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 1 Psalm 103:12 as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. Proverbs 1:20 Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 4:7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 5:21 For a mans ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths. Proverbs 12:22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight. Proverbs 4:7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. Proverbs 6:27 Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? Proverbs 14:9 Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance. Isaiah 1:18 Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. Daniel 9:9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him. Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. Mark 11:22-23 And Jesus answered them, Have faith in God. 23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, Be taken up and thrown into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Romans 7:15-20 For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. 16 Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. 17 So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. 18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.

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2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Colossians 1:13-14 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 2 Timothy 2:22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

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APPENDIX 4: SELF-HISTORY ASSIGNMENT The purpose of this assignment is to help you write a comprehensive personal history so that we might get to know you better. Not only will this help us; it will help you too. As you do the work, youll begin to see connections in your life that you may not have thought about. Later, all that you have written will be combined with future work to help you craft a personal testimony. PART 1, MY INTRODUCTION 1. Write several short paragraphs of introduction. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. A Celebrate Recovery Introduction, Hello, my name is _______ _______. Im a faithful believer in Jesus Christ who suffers from __________. b. Your birthplace and the year you were born c. The names of your parents and approximately how old they were when you were born. d. How many brothers and sisters you have and whether you were the oldest, youngest, only child, etc... e. A short description of the first house you lived inif you can remember it.

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PART 2, MY CHILDHOOD YEARS 2. Write several short paragraphs describing what your childhood years were like. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. Whether they were happy years or not and why. b. How well did you got along with other family members. c. The influence that other family members such as aunts, uncles, and grandparents had upon you. d. Different towns and places you lived. e. The most memorable fun time you had growing up

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PART 3, WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO BE ME 3. Write several short paragraphs describing What it was like to be you, during your school years. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. Whether you liked or disliked school, b. Subjects you most liked and didnt like, c. What activities you participated in, d. Your estimate of how popular you were, e. Describe the crowd you hung around the most, f. Describe the teachers you liked the most.

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PART 4, MY UNIQUE AND UNUSUAL QUALITIES 4. Write several short paragraphs describing any unusual or unique qualities that you possess (both good and not so good). Where and when did you first notice these qualities? Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary.

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PART 5, DESCRIPTIONS OF MY PARENTS 5. In a few short paragraphs, provide descriptions of your parents and/or the people who raised you. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include descriptions of: a. Physical features of your parents. b. Their best and worst qualities. c. Values that were most important to them. d. Your feelings towards them, and their feelings towards you, as you grew up. e. Your relationship with them today.

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PART 6, MY FAITH AND RELIGION 6. In a few short paragraphs, describe the role that faith and religion played in your life. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. What religious faith, if any, were your parents? b. What faith religious faith, if any, are you a part of today? c. How important was church, religion, personal faith in your family? d. At what age, if ever, did you become a Christian? e. How important is faith to you today?

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PART 7, MY HURTS, HABITS AND HANG-UPS 7. In a few short paragraphs, describe the main hurt, habit, or hang-up that caused you to seek help and recovery. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. As best you remember, what was your first experience? Describe as much as you remember. b. How did it progress throughout the years?

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PART 8, LOSSES IVE SUFFERED 8. In a few short paragraphs, describe the losses you have suffered as a result of your hurt, habit or hang-up. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to include: a. What have you suffered emotionally (i.e. anger, guilt, shame, disgust, withdrawal, depression, unhappiness, etc.)? b. What physical problems, if any, have you suffered? c. How was your spiritual walk affected? d. What affect has this had on your closest relationships? e. What other losses such as job, income, possessions, homes, etc., have you suffered?

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PART 9, MY GREATEST CHALLENGES 9. In a few short paragraphs, describe a few of the greatest challenges you have faced so far in your life, besides your hurt, habit or hang-up. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary.

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PART 10, MY DREAMS 10. In a few short paragraphs, tell us about your dreams. Write as much as you like. You may use the back of this page if necessary. Be sure to describe what: a. Youve always wanted to do with your life. b. Possessions, if any, would you like to own. c. Relationships, if any, would you like to have or improve. Describe what they would be like ideally. d. You think a recovered life should look like?

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