THE PURITY PROJECT OF OKLAHOMA CITY PRESENTS

GETTING HELP
MENTORING AND RECOVERY SERIES, WORKBOOK 2

By David Lowry, Ph. D.

Getting Help is the second 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.

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

The Purity Project of Oklahoma Cityhttp://www.purityprojectokc.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................... iii Introduction To Book 2 .................................................................................................................................. vii Celebrate Recovery's 8 Principles ............................................................................................................. viii The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous .............................................................................................. ix Lesson 11 Believing Earnestly ......................................................................................................................... 1 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 1 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................... 2 Recovery Wisdom ....................................................................................................................................... 3 The Names of God Assignment: Part 1 ....................................................................................................... 3 Recovery Reading ....................................................................................................................................... 3 Lesson 12 Our God, He is alive! ...................................................................................................................... 4 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 4 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................... 6 Recovery Wisdom ....................................................................................................................................... 7 The Names of God Assignment: Part 2 ....................................................................................................... 7 Recovery Reading ....................................................................................................................................... 7 Lesson 13 We Matter To God ......................................................................................................................... 8 Step Reflection ........................................................................................................................................... 8 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 10 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 11 The Names of God Assignment: Part 3 ..................................................................................................... 11 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 11 Lesson 14 God Has The Power..................................................................................................................... 12 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 12 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 14

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Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 15 The Names of God Assignment: Part 4 ..................................................................................................... 15 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 15 Lesson 15 God Wants To Help Us ................................................................................................................. 16 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 16 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 18 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 19 The Names of God Assignment: Part 5 ..................................................................................................... 19 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 19 Lesson 16 Asking for Gods Help .................................................................................................................. 20 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 20 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 22 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 23 The Names of God Assignment: Part 6 ..................................................................................................... 23 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 23 Lesson 17 A Power Greater Than Ourselves ................................................................................................ 24 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 24 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 26 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 27 The Names of God Assignment: Part 7 ..................................................................................................... 27 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 27 Lesson 18 Regaining Our Sanity .................................................................................................................. 28 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 28 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 30 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 31 The Names of God Assignment: Part 8 ..................................................................................................... 31 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 31

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Lesson 19 Happy Are They That Mourn ...................................................................................................... 32 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 32 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 34 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 35 The Names of God Assignment: Part 9 ..................................................................................................... 35 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 35 Lesson 20 We Can change .......................................................................................................................... 36 Step Reflection ......................................................................................................................................... 36 Scripture Reflection .................................................................................................................................. 38 Recovery Wisdom ..................................................................................................................................... 39 The Names of God Assignment: Part 10 ................................................................................................... 39 Recovery Reading ..................................................................................................................................... 39 APPENDIXES .................................................................................................................................................. 40 APPENDIX 1: Prayers for Help .................................................................................................................. 41 APPENDIX 2: Can We Really Change? ...................................................................................................... 42 APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 2 ......................................................................................... 46 APPENDIX 4: The Names of God .............................................................................................................. 49 Part 1, Adonai ....................................................................................................................................... 49 Part 2, Elohim ....................................................................................................................................... 50 Part 3, El Roi ......................................................................................................................................... 51 Part 4, El Shaddai .................................................................................................................................. 52 Part 5, Immanuel .................................................................................................................................. 53 Part 6, Jehovah ..................................................................................................................................... 54 Part 7, Jehovah Rapha .......................................................................................................................... 55 Part 8, Jehovah Rohi ............................................................................................................................. 56 Part 9, Jehovah Tsidkenu ...................................................................................................................... 57 Part 10, YHWY....................................................................................................................................... 58

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INTRODUCTION TO BOOK 2
Congratulations on completing your first set of lessons! Its exciting to know that you are making significant progress towards a full recovery. These next ten lessons are designed to teach you about God and his willingness to help you. Step 1 might be summarized as I Cant while Step 2 is best summarized as God Can! The purpose of this series entitled: Getting Help is to study the nature of God. Step 2 teaches that we need to believe 3 things: that there is a God or a power greater than ourselves; that we matter to God; and, that he has the power to deliver us from our bondage. While this presents no problem for some; for others, step two can be a huge challenge that represents the first giant leap of faith. The truth is, all of us have numerous ideas about Godeven if we dont believe he exists. Many, if not most, of our ideas reveal that we have a great misunderstanding about him. For so many, God is a cruel all seeing eye who is waiting to condemn anyone who doesnt live up to his commands. On the other hand, others act as though it doesnt matter how we live our lives. Some people expect God to do everything for them while others expect nothing from God. None of these ideas is helpful for recovery. While none of us can fully grasp God, we can get to know him better by learning what he says about himself through scripture. Since our recovery depends upon accepting the existence of God, it stands to reason that the better we know him, the easier our recovery will be. Jesus told us that We would know the truth and the truth would set us free. Jesus also taught that He was the way, the truth, and the life. Our study of God, as revealed through his son Jesus, will show us that there is nothing better we can do with our lives than to place our trust in the power of God. It is my hope and prayer that Step 2 will bring great hope and encouragement to your life. Whatever your level of faith may be at this point, just know that God will grow it into something beautiful. For every step you take towards him, he will take many more towards you.

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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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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 11

BELIEVING EARNESTLY
For some, possibly the hardest step in the recovery process is making a decision to believe in God. One of the best ways Ive found of handling ideas that I dont know what to do with is to shelve them. I dont reject them, I just set them aside until a later timewhen I better understand them. Because your recovery is important, I encourage those of you who struggle with belief for now, to be open to the possibility that a power that is greater than ourselves is ready to help you do what you cannot do for yourself. God is real and He believes in you whether or not you believe in Him. If you stay with the lessons, you will see this power at work in your life first hand! STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

REFLECTION: THE FIRST WORDS OF STEP 2 SAYS, I EARNESTLY BELIEVE. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST TEN THINGS YOU BELIEVE, OR DONT BELIEVE, ABOUT GOD. 2. WHAT ARE 5 THINGS YOU MIGHT DO AT THE PRESENT TIME TO DEMONSTRATE AN EARNEST BELIEF IN GOD? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 11

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION John 14:6 6 Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Proverbs 3:12 12 for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, 1. WRITE HOW THESE SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR LIFE. 2. IN PROVERBS 3:12, THE WORD REPROVES MEANS TO CORRECT, PUNISH OR DISCIPLINE. AS YOU REFLECT BACK OVER YOUR LIFE, LIST FIVE TIMES WHEN YOU WERE REPROVED BY THE LORD. TELL A LITTLE ABOUT EACH TIME. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 11

RECOVERY WISDOM Dont let anyone live rent free in your head. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 1

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE SECTION 1. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING Life's Healing Choice; Choice 2; Introduction p. 37 -50 IN THE SPACE BELOW, WRITE FIVE 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 12

LESSON 12 OUR GOD, HE IS ALIVE!

Imagine you are walking along a beach and find a watch lying in the sand. As you pick up the watch you note that it is unlike any watch you have ever seen. It is crafted of expensive metals and has exquisite designs. You marvel at the craftsmanship. When we see things in our world like the watch, we know that there is an intelligent design behind it. It is foolish to think that the watch just happened by accident. So it is with this world and all things that inhabit it. Our bodies reflect the marvelous design of our creator. You are not an accident. You are a precious creation of God. God created the world and everything in it; and, he is still at work creating new lives. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that He has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Lesson 12

REFLECTION: STEP TWO STATES, I EARNESTLY BELIEVE THAT GOD EXISTS. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. GIVE FIVE REASONS WHY YOU BELIEVE SOMEONE SHOULD BELIEVE IN THE EXISTENCE OF GOD. 2. EXPLAIN HOW A BELIEF IN THE EXISTENCE OF GOD CAN MAKE AN IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE IN YOUR RECOVERY. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 12

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION John 6:40 40 For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. Proverbs 3:17 17 Her ways (wisdom) are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. WHAT ARE THE TWO PROMISES MENTIONED IN JOHN 6:40? 2. WHAT CONDITION IS PLACED ON THESE PROMISES? 3. WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN JOHN 6:40 AND STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 12

RECOVERY WISDOM If you wonder if youre an alcoholic, you probably are. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 2

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 2. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING Lifes Healing Choices, Choice 2, p. 51 - 54 ANSWER THE 8 QUESTIONS ON PAGES 52 53. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 13

LESSON 13

WE MATTER TO GOD
God created the heavens and the earth as well as you and me. When he did this, he had a plan. The Bible says that God knew us even before we were born and that the hairs of our head are numbered. Yes, God knows who you are and he wants you to know him and the plans he has for your life. For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11, New International Version). STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that He has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

Lesson 13

REFLECTION: STEP TWO STATES, I BELIEVETHAT I MATTER TO HIM (GOD). IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. THINK BACK OVER YOUR LIFE AND LIST FIVE TIMES THAT ILLUSTRATE THAT YOU MATTER TO GOD. 2. EXPLAIN, IN YOUR OWN WORDS, WHY YOUR RECOVERY MATTERS TO GOD. 3. THE LAST PART OF MATTHEW 5:4 SAYS, FOR THEY SHALL BE COMFORTED. EXPLAIN HOW THAT PROMISE RELATES TO QUESTION 2 ABOVE. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

Lesson 13

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Romans 8:11 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. Proverbs 2:7-8 7 he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, 8 guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: 1. WHAT POWER, ACCORDING TO ROMANS 8:11, WILL BE AT WORK IN YOU AS YOU PROCEED THROUGH YOUR RECOVERY? 2. APPLY PROVERBS 2:7-8 TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE CIRCUMSTANCE. 3. HOW DOES PROVERBS 2:7-8 APPLY TO STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 13

RECOVERY WISDOM Dont quit before God changes you! ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 3

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 3. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING Life's Healing Choice; Choices; Choice 2; Testimonials p. 55 - 69 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.

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Lesson 14

LESSON 14

GOD HAS THE POWER

God is all powerful and he wants to use his power to help you. Some ask, If God is all powerful, why doesnt he just eliminate all of my problems as well as the problems of the world? The answer is simply this; because God desires to have a relationship with you, he uses his power to work with you. Its like parents who help the child do a difficult task. They are well able to do the job, but the parents know that their child will grow up to be a better person if they do it together. The problems in our lives, as well as those of this world, are not the result of a God who wont use his power. Its the result of us not turning to God and allowing him to work with us. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that He has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 14

REFLECTION: STEP TWO SAYS, GOD HAS THE POWER. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST TEN EXAMPLES OF THINGS THAT GOD HAS POWER OVER IN YOUR LIFE. 2. LIST THREE WAYS THAT PHILIPPIANS 2:13 RELATES TO STEP 2. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 14

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION 2 Chronicles 7:14 (New International Version) 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Proverbs 11:7 When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing.

________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, 1. WRITE HOW THESE SCRIPTURES APPLY TO YOUR LIFE. 2. LIST 5 WICKED WAYS THAT YOU NEED GODS POWER TO TURN AWAY FROM. 3. ACCORDING TO PROVERBS 11:7, WHAT IS THE END RESULT OF DOING THINGS BY OUR OWN POWER? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 14

RECOVERY WISDOM

Remember H A L T. Be especially careful whenever you are hungry, angry, lonely or tired.
________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 4

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 4. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING

A Hunger for Healing, Chapter 3, p. 32-37

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 15

LESSON 15

GOD WANTS TO HELP US

"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. (Luke 15: 17 -20)

The love that God has for us is outrageous. No matter how badly we mess up, God is ready to help the moment we come to him. Never underestimate the power of a relationship with God. God wants our lives to work and he will help us if we let him. Just as the son made peace with his father, so we too, can make peace with our heavenly father and be restored a life of blessings. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 15

REFLECTION: STEP TWO STATES THAT GOD HAS THE POWER TO HELP ME. THERE ARE FOUR KEY WORDS: GOD, POWER, HELP, ME. 1. NOTICE THAT THE WORD POWER IS PAIRED WITH GOD WHILE THE WORD HELP IS PAIRED WITH ME. EXPLAIN THE MEANING THAT WE CAN DRAW FROM THIS? 2. WHAT DOES THE WORD HELP IMPLY? LIST AT LEAST FIVE DIFFERENT WAYS THAT GOD HELPS US IN OUR RECOVERY. 3. IN YOUR OPINION, WHY DOESNT GOD ZAP US WITH HIS POWER TO HELP US RECOVER INSTEAD OF HELPING US WITH IT? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 15

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Hebrews 11:6 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. Proverbs 2:8 (New International Version) 8 for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW, EXPLAIN HOW TODAYS SCRIPTURES RELATES TO STEP 2. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 15

RECOVERY WISDOM

We all have another drunk in us; but, we dont know if we have another recovery in us.
________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 5

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 5. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING A Hunger for Healing; Chapter 3; p. 37-41 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.

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Lesson 16

LESSON 16

ASKING FOR GODS HELP

In the previous lessons weve noticed that God is powerful and that he wants to help us. In this lesson we will learn that one of the simplest ways of tapping into Gods power is through prayer. A simple prayer that has helped many a person is, Lord, please help me! God knows our hearts and when he hears us call upon him in sincerity he comes to our aid. Prayer is something we can do anytime and anywhere. We can say them out loud or silently in our head. More things are wrought through prayer than we can imagine. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 16

REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. PHILIPPIANS 2:13 SAYS THAT GOD WORKS IN US TO WILL AND TO ACT. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? 2. PHILIPPIANS 2:13 SAYS THAT GOD HELPS US ACCORDING TO HIS GOOD PURPOSE, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? 3. ONE OF THE WAYS THAT WE INVITE GOD TO HELP US IS TO ASK HIM IN PRAYER TO DO SO. TURN TO APPENDIX 1 AND READ SEVERAL PRAYERS THAT ASK GOD FOR HELP. 4. WRITE A SHORT PRAYER OF HELP OF YOUR OWN THAT YOU MIGHT PRAY THROUGH OUT YOUR STUDY OF THESE LESSONS ASKING GOD FOR HELP. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 16

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Psalm 61 1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. 4 I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. 5 For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. 6 Increase the days of the king's life, his years for many generations. 7 May he be enthroned in God's presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him. 8 Then will I ever sing praise to your name and fulfill my vows day after day.

Proverbs 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. HOW IS PSALMS 61 SIMILAR TO YOUR LIFE CIRCUMSTANCE? 2. WHAT DO YOU THINK PROVERBS 15:29 MEANS TO THOSE OF US WHO ARE IN RECOVERY? 3. WHAT DOES WICKEDNESS MEAN? 4. ACCORDING TO STEP 2, WHAT MAKES ONE WICKED? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 16

RECOVERY WISDOM

You cant do it alone and no one can do it for you.

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

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 6

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 6. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING

A Hunger for Healing; Chapter 3, p. 42-43

ANSWER ANY THREE OF THE FIVE QUESTIONS FOUND ON PAGE 42-43. USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 17

LESSON 17

A POWER GREATER THAN OURSELVES

A struggle for all of us in recovery is our constant tendency to rely upon our own power instead of Gods power. There are no two ways with Godwe cannot do things our way and his at the same time. If we decide to do things our way, he will step aside and let us try and succeed without him. Of course, before long we will see that our best thinking is what keeps getting us into trouble. It seems we must be constantly reminded of our need for a power greater than ourselves. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 17

REFLECTION: STEP TWO SPEAKS A POWER GREATER THAN OURSELVES. IN THE SPACE BELOW, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: 1. WHO IS THE POWER THAT IS GREATER THAN OURSELVES? 2. READ THE FOLLOWING SCRIPTURE FROM EXODUS 3. A. IF SOMEONE WERE TO ASK YOU WHY YOU BELIEVE YOUR RECOVERY WILL BE DIFFERENT THIS TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? B. HOW DOES THIS SCRIPTURE APPLY TO YOUR RECOVERY?
13. Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?"14. God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' "15. God also said to Moses, "Say to the Israelites, 'The Lord, the God of your fathers -the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob --has sent me to you.' This is my name forever, the name by which I am to be remembered from generation to generation. 16. "Go, assemble the elders of Israel and say to them, 'The Lord, the God of your fathers--the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob --appeared to me and said: I have watched over you and have seen what has been done to you in Egypt. 17. And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites--a land flowing with milk and honey.'

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

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Lesson 17

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION John 11:25-26 25 Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this? Proverbs 8:34-36 (New International Version) 34 Blessed is the man who listens to me, (wisdom) watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. 35 For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. 36 But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF THESE SCRIPTURES APPLIES TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. 2. HOW DO THE PROMISES IN JOHN 11:25-26 APPLY TO STEP 2? 3. HOW DOES PROVERBS 8:34-36 RELATE TO STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 17

RECOVERY WISDOM

F E A R = Face everything and recover!

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

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 7

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 7. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING

The Steps We Took; Step 2; p. 29-31

WRITE TWO 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.

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Lesson 18

LESSON 18

REGAINING OUR SANITY

For those of us with compulsions and addictions, life doesnt always make sense. To make matters worse, it seems that the choices we make only compound our problems. Jesus said, You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. If we are to find our way to sanity, we must find our way to the truth. The Bible tells us that Jesus, is the truth and the life. Following Jesus, and obeying his commands, brings the truth that we need to be free from our bondage and regain our sanity. When we try to run our lives without God, we are living an insane life. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 18

REFLECTION: STEP 2 SPEAKS OF RESTORING US TO SANITY. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. LIST 7 THINGS THAT YOU HAVE DONE OVER THE YEARS, AS A RESULT OF YOUR AFFLICTION THAT DEMONSTRATES THAT YOU WERE NOT IN YOUR RIGHT MIND. 2. THE DEFINITION OF INSANITY IS DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AGAIN EXPECTING A DIFFERENT RESULT. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU HAVE DONE AGAIN AND AGAIN TO SOLVE YOUR PROBLEM? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 18

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION Revelation 3:20 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. Proverbs 22:4 4 The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF THESE SCRIPTURES APPLIES TO YOUR PRESENT LIFE SITUATION. 2. HOW DOES REVELATION 3:20 RELATE TO STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 18

RECOVERY WISDOM When you do all the talking, you only learn what you already know. ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 8

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 8. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING

The Steps We Took; Step 2; p. 32-35

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.

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LESSON 19

HAPPY ARE THEY THAT MOURN

A cup that is filled cannot be filled any further. So it is with our lives. If we are filled with ourselves, we cannot be filled with Christs power. When Jesus says, Happy are those that mourn, he is offering good news. Once we realize that our ways of doing things have brought us to a dead-end, we become more open to the hope that Christ offers usa hope that will comfort us. Mourning includes being sorry for the things we have done; being sad about the condition of our lives; and realizing that our spiritual condition is one of sin and separation before God. Mourning leads us to a Godly repentance. When we come to the end of ourselvesinto a state of mourningwe find that the cup is finally able to be emptied of the meaningless things weve filled it with and ready to receive the new life of Christ. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

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Lesson 19

REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. WHAT DOES THE WORD MOURN MEAN IN MATTHEW 5:4? 2. EXPLAIN HOW PHILIPPIANS 2:13 HELPS TO FULFILL MATTHEW 5:4. 3. HOW DOES THE CONCEPT OF MOURNING APPLY TO RECOVERY? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 19

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION John 17:20-23 20 I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. Proverbs 30:5 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. THIS PRAYER IN JOHN 17 APPLIES TO ALL OF US WHO BELIEVE IN CHRIST. LIST FIVE HOPES THAT CHRIST HAS FOR YOU AND ME IN JOHN 17:20-23. 2. ACCORDING TO THIS PRAYER OF JESUS, WHY IS YOUR RECOVERY SO IMPORTANT TO HIM? 3. JESUS IS KNOWN AS THE LIVING WORD. NOW THAT YOU KNOW THAT, EXPLAIN WHAT PROVERBS 30:5 MEAN. 4. HOW DOES PROVERBS 30:5 APPLY TO STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 19

RECOVERY WISDOM There is a God and Im not it! ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 9

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 9. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING

The Steps We Took; Step 2; p. 36

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.

35

LESSON 20

WE CAN CHANGE
The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news! (Mark 1:15)

Sometimes we wonder if it is possible to change and be free of our compulsions and addictions. It seems that no matter what we do, we become even more enslaved by them. But there is good news! When Jesus was on the earth preaching the gospel, he reminded people to repent and believe the good news. The same is true for us today. Gods kingdom and power can be ours through repentance and belief in the good news. Jesus said that he came to set the captives freeand thats good news indeed! The kingdom of God is a kingdom of change that sets us free. STEP REFLECTION
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: STEP 2

I earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover. (Celebrate Recovery: Step 2) Matthew 5:4 Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
THE TWELVE STEPS: STEP 2

We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (Step 2 of the 12 Steps) Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

36

Lesson 20

STEP REFLECTION: UNTIL NOW, MANY OF US NEVER REALIZED THAT WHEN WE USE OUR OWN POWER, THINGS ONLY GET WORSE. DOING THINGS OUR WAY LEADS TO MORE PROBLEMS. GODS POWER DELIVERS US FROM OUR PROBLEMS. IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. DESCRIBE AT LEAST FIVE SITUATIONS OVER THE COURSE OF YOUR LIFE WHERE, USING YOUR OWN POWER, YOU ONLY MADE A SITUATION WORSE. 2. ACCORDING TO STEP 2, WHAT IS IT ABOUT OUR POWER THAT MAKES THINGS WORSE? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 20

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Proverbs 26:20 For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. ________________________________________ SCRIPTURE REFLECTION: IN THE SPACE BELOW: 1. ACCORDING TO 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17, WHAT DOES CHRIST INTEND TO DO FOR YOU? 2. HOW DOES 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 RELATE TO STEP 2? 3. WHAT DOES THE PRACTICAL PIECE OF ADVICE IN PROVERBS 26:20 MEAN? 4. IF YOU THINK ABOUT IT, THIS PROVERB ILLUSTRATES MANS WAY OF HANDLING A QUARREL VERSUS GODS WAY. WHAT ARE THE TWO WAYS OF HANDLING A QUARREL? 5. HOW DOES THIS PASSAGE IN PROVERBS RELATE TO STEP 2? USE THE BACK OF THIS PAGE IF YOU NEED TO WRITE MORE.

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Lesson 20

RECOVERY WISDOM When we give something to God, we are not giving up! ________________________________________ WHAT DOES THIS SAYING MEAN TO YOU? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF HOW IT WORKS IN YOUR LIFE.

THE NAMES OF GOD ASSIGNMENT: PART 10

GO TO APPENDIX 4 AND COMPLETE PART 10. FEEL FREE TO WORK AHEAD IF TIME PERMITS.

RECOVERY READING GO TO APPENDIX 2 AND READ THE ARTICLE ENTITLED, CAN WE REALLY CHANGE? WRITE FIVE INSIGHTS YOU RECEIVED FROM READING IT. 1. WRITE THE QUOTE AND THEN, 2. EXPLAIN THE INSIGHT YOU RECEIVED.

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APPENDIXES
APPENDIX 1: Prayers for Help ...................................................................................................................... 41 APPENDIX 2: Can we really change? ............................................................................................................ 42 APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 2 ................................................................................................. 46 APPENDIX 4: The Names of God .................................................................................................................. 49

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APPENDIX 1: PRAYERS FOR HELP

A Simple Prayer for Help Lord, please help me! The Jesus Prayer Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Have mercy on me a sinner. A Prayer to the Holy One Dear Holy One, Sometimes it is hard for us to remember to thank you, especially when we are worried and troubled. Sometimes we need to complain or question you before we feel free to love you. O God, our lives can be so difficult. Some of our days have been filled with heartache, loss, confusion, sickness, and even death. Sometimes, God, you have seemed far off and impossible to understand. What we know is that our hurts have stretched and deepened us. And we know that you suffer alongside and with us. Help us to recognize and find comfort in your presence, for you never abandon us. Help us to trust your goodness and your grace for you are our refuge and our strength. Help us to find peace by resting in your boundless love. Amen. Strength in Troubled Times Our Strength in Troubled Times, we keep watch for you. For you are our stronghold, the Holy One who loves us faithfully. We will sing aloud of your steadfast love. For you are our refuge in our days of distress. We give thanks to the One who leads us through the wilderness experiences of our lives. For your patient and faithful presence never abandons us. (Adapted from Joyce Rupp, by J. Bunch) Spirit of love, strengthen us with your presence When our world seems bleak, when we walk with sadness ... Spirit of Love, strengthen us with your presence. When anxiety takes over our spirit, when restlessness governs us ... Spirit of Serenity, deepen in us the energy of your peace. In times when fear threatens to drown our trust in you, and we are tempted to doubt all the ways we have known you ... Spirit of Steadfastness, renew our trust in your love and presence. As we walk on the edges of life and death, as we struggle with inner and outer changes ... Spirit of Wisdom, move us with the energy of your divine guidance. (Adapted from Joyce Rupp, by J. Bunch)

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APPENDIX 2: CAN WE REALLY CHANGE? By David Lowry At some point in our lives, we need to ask ourselves a very important question: "Must I accept that I am whatever I am or is it possible for me to change?" Another way of asking this question is: "Can we really change who we are?" I find that we don't like to be pinned down with this question. The convenient answer is to say, "That depends." Most of us accept the common opinion that there are some things in our lives that can be changed and others that cannot. But I see this answer as a convenient cop out that robs us of our ability to make choices for positive transformation. If we believe that change isn't possible, we won't try. If we believe that we can change, we will feel compelled to take action. As long as we allow ourselves to be confused about what can and cannot be changed in our lives, we'll live dead-ended, stalemated lives where we wonder if the latest challenges we face is something that we should even invest our energies to change or not. With God's help, there is nothing in your life that cannot be changed; but, some things can be changed faster than others. OUR DEFAULT ANSWER IS NO Most of us don't believe that we are resistant to change. To admit otherwise would be like saying we have a closed mind. But our lives betray us. In my own life, I have always said that I believed that anyone could change for the better; but, I held on to very damaging beliefs, attitudes, values, emotions and ways of living that said otherwise. For 15 years I lived a life addicted to pornography--never doing anything to significantly change the situation. That is what denial is all about-- We say no to change when we live in denial or live in ambivalence about whether it is possible to change or not. It is much easier to say no to change than for us to take on the responsibility of changing our lives. CAN COMPULSIONS AND ADDICTIONS BE CHANGED? Can we quit an addiction? Can we rid ourselves of our compulsions? Are we able to stop acting out? These are good questions to ask. The answer is very simple--it depends on who you ask. There are many respected professionals who vigorously support either view. But consider this, every day we do things that scientists of ages past said was impossible. We fly, drive at incredible speeds, cure once incurable diseases, etc. Doesn't it make sense to believe that we can change even if "so called" experts say otherwise? The truth is, people make profound changes every day. People who were lifelong alcoholics stop drinking. Sexual addicts leave lives of lust and find a way to turn their lives around. Properly motivated, people are able to make enormous changes. Some do it because they have no choice and others decide to change because it is in their best interest. Whatever the reason or motivation, people can and do change some pretty incredible things about their lives. At the Purity Project, Celebrate Recovery

42

APPENDIX 2: Can we really change?

and Eagle Ministries, where I volunteer, Ive met tons of people who were caught in situations from which we thought there was no escape. One person I know had even planned his suicide! But all of us did change and you can too; and, we are all here to help you! WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO CHANGE? While change is different for each of us, there are some common denominators that we can point to. The first indicators on the list below are accurate indicators of whether or not you'll be successful at making your changes and whether or not people, who can help you, should invest their time and energy in you. 1. There must be a desire to change 2. There must be willingness to stop making excuses 3. There must be willingness to take immediate action If you are willing to do these three things, you can make a change in anything in your life--at least temporarily. These first three things are based upon human will power. We should never underestimate human will power. But there is a way of supercharging our wills by adding the power of God to our lives. We do this in three very incredible steps: 1. Realizing that our lives are not working and that we are powerless to change them in a meaningful way, 2. Realizing that the only way I can change is for God to change me, 3. Make a decision to give everything about my life to God. As mentioned, these three things will supercharge your ability to make the changes you need. This is because decisions like these intentionally align our lives with powerful spiritual forces. Some people have a hard time believing that this could be true; but, all of us here at Eagle Ministries can testify that this is true. We ask you, "What have you got to lose? IF YOU WISH TO REMAIN PERMANENTLY CHANGED, YOU MUST PAY ATTENTION TO THE NEXT THREE ITEMS. 1. You must be willing to change how you see yourself. 2. You must be willing to never go back or return to your former life. 3. You must be willing to continue doing the things that lead to freedom--even when you have turned your life in a new direction. These items are action oriented. You won't be able to change your thinking unless you are actually doing something that demonstrates that you wish to make changes. This means that you must replace the negative thing you once did with something that is positive. You must create new boundaries that are based upon subtracting the old and adding the new.

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APPENDIX 2: Can we really change?

THE LAW OF ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION If you wish to change, you must be willing to subtract out the stuff that isn't working and add new things to your life that make a positive difference. Nature abhors a vacuum. It will not allow us to subtract something out of our life without replacement. This is where so many people fail. They stop doing something for a short period of time without replacing it with something else. For instance, if you decide to stop visiting pornographic websites, you will need to replace your old habit with something new--such as reading recovery literature, going to a support group or an activity such as a hobby or work--or you'll return to your old habit and become worse than ever. HOW TO BE TRANSFORMED Stopping a compulsive behavior or addiction is difficult enough; but, with behavior modification techniques, it can be done. Transformation is another thing altogether. Transformation means that we are in the process of changing each of our character defects from the inside out. In my own life, I remember thinking that my life would be so much better if I weren't addicted to pornography and acting out. I just knew that if I could find a way of stopping what I was doing (and staying stopped) that my life would fall into place. So, I sought help and began doing the work necessary to break the cycle of addiction. Before long, I was no longer using pornography; and, after a little longer time, I found that my desire for pornography was much less than it had ever been before. But I still had a problem. My problem was that I had stopped doing a behavior without addressing or changing the underlying problems and conditions that led me to my compulsions in the first place. Had I stopped at this point, the probabilities are high that I would have returned to my former addictive behaviors or I would have replaced my addiction for pornography with some other equally vicious addiction. Transformation means that we must be willing to address the underlying issues and conditions that led us to act out in the first place. This does not have to be a long and involved psychological process. It can be as simple as beginning to notice where our lives aren't working and starting the change process all over again. NEVER GO BACK! As we mentioned earlier, change involves addition and subtraction. Once we decide to subtract something from our lives, we never go back. We never allow ourselves to say, "I can handle this now." We never go back and "test the waters" to see how strong we are. We just walk away. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is walk away and never look back. Earlier in my recovery process I operated a website that I came to believe was not healthy for my growth and

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APPENDIX 2: Can we really change?

transformation. Though it was a fairly popular website, I came to believe that it didn't add anything positive to my life and that it represented old ways of thinking that were holding me back. Once I had clarity on this, I walked away and never visited it again. I let the domain lapse and the site fell into oblivion. If you are in a relationship that is inappropriate for you, I believe the best thing is to walk away. Now that I've been set free from my sexual compulsions, I have no intentions of ever revisiting my old habits ever again. CONCLUSION We can change for the better. Don't let anyone tell you that you cannot. Don't believe anyone when they say they cannot. We may not want to change or make the effort to change; but, with God's help, we will change and be transformed into his glorious likeness.

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APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 2 Proverbs 2:7-8 7 he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, 8 guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints. Proverbs 3:12 12 for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:17 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. Proverbs 10:17 17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray. Proverbs 12:14 14 From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a mans hand comes back to him. Proverbs 13:14 14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death. Proverbs 15:15 15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast. Proverbs 18:20-21 20 From the fruit of a mans mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips. 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.

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APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 2

Proverbs 22:4 4 The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life. Proverbs 26:20 20 For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. Proverbs 30:5 5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. John 3:3-6 3 Jesus answered him, Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus said to him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mothers womb and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. John 6:40 40 For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. John 11:25-26 25 Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this? John 14:6 6 Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 17:20-23 20 I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

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APPENDIX 3: Selected Scriptures for Step 2

John 20:29-31 29 Jesus said to him, Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. 30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. Romans 8:11 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 10:1-4 10:1 Brothers, my hearts desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. 2 For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to Gods righteousness. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. Romans 10:13 13 for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. 2 Corinthians 4:13-14 13 Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, I believed, and so I spoke, we also believe, and so we also speak, 14 knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. Revelation 3:20 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

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APPENDIX 4: THE NAMES OF GOD Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.

PART 1, ADONAI

Name of God Adonai The Lord

Meaning My Great Lord

Application God is the Master and majestic Lord. God is our total authority.

Bible Reference Psalm 8; Isaiah 40:3-5 Ezekiel 16:8; Habakkuk 3:19

Comments Pronounced: ahdoe-NI Adonai (plural) is derived from the singular Adon (Lord). This term was pronounced in substitution of YHWH (considered too sacred to be uttered).

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. What does it mean that God is Lord? Give five examples of things God is Lord over. What does it mean when we say the Lord has total authority? If God is our total authority, and we must obey him, how will we learn of his commands? 5. Write a short prayer to God as Adonai.

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APPENDIX 4: The Names of God

PART 2, ELOHIM Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning Creator Application God is the allpowerful creator of the universe. God knows all, creates all, and is everywhere at all times. Bible Reference Genesis 1:1-3; Deuteronomy 10:17 Psalm 68 (Mark 13:19) Comments Pronounced: elo-HEEM Plural form of El. This name is usually associated with God in relation to His creation. Some people use the plural word Elohim as proof for the Trinity. (Genesis 1:26) Elohim is also used to refer to false gods and even human judges. (Psalm 82:6, 7; John 10:34)

Name of God Elohim The AllPowerful One

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. According to Genesis 1, what things did God create? 2. What parts of creation do you like the best? 3. We use the words, omniscient, omnipresent and omnipotent to describe God. Give specific examples of how these qualities might help us with our earthly afflictions? 4. Write a short prayer to God as Elohim.

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APPENDIX 4: The Names of God

PART 3, EL ROI Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning The God Who Sees Me Application There are no circumstances in our lives that escape His fatherly awareness and care. God knows us and our troubles. Bible Reference Genesis 16:11-14; Psalm 139:7-12 Comments Pronounced: el ROY Hagar called the Lord by this name beside a fountain of water in the wilderness. God knows all of our thoughts and feelings. Jesus knew the thoughts of those around him, demonstrating that he is El Roi. (Matthew 22:18; 26:21, 34; Luke 5:21-24)

Name of God El Roi

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. How is this quality of God different from the qualities we studied in part 2? 2. We sometimes mistakenly compare God to our earthly fathers. How is God the Father different from our earthly fathers? 3. Why do you think God allows himself to know all of our thoughts and feelings? 4. Write a short prayer to God as El Roi.

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APPENDIX 4: The Names of God

PART 4, EL SHADDAI Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning The All Suffcient One, The God of the Mountains, God Almighty Application God is the allsuffcient source of all of our blessings. God is all-powerful. Our problems are not too big for God to handle. Bible Reference Genesis 17:1-3; 48:3; 49:25 Genesis 35:11; Psalm 90:2 Comments Pronounced: elshaw-DIE Some scholars suggest that Shaddai refers to Gods power evident in His judgment. Others suggest that El Shaddai means God of the Mountains. God refers to himself as El Shaddai when he confrms his covenant with Abraham

Name of God El Shaddai

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. When we say that God is all sufficient, what does this mean? How does this quality benefit us in our troubles and trials? Why do you think God cares about our problems? Write a short prayer to God as El Shaddai.

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PART 5, IMMANUEL Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning God With Us I AM Application God never changes. His promises never fail. When we are faithless, He is faithful. We need to obey Him. Bible Reference Isaiah 7:14; 8:8-10 (Matthew 1:23) Comments Pronounced: ihMAN-u-el This name indicates that Jesus is more than man. He is also God. Isaiah said that the child born to the virgin would be called Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6) He is the radiance of Gods glory and the exact representation of His nature. (Hebrews 1:3)

Name of God Immanuel

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. What does it mean when we say that God is with us (you)? When we say that God never changes, how is this a good thing for us? When God makes a promise, how long does it last? Write a short prayer to God as Immanuel.

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APPENDIX 4: The Names of God

PART 6, JEHOVAH Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning I AM, Application The One Who Is The Self-Existent One God never changes. His promises never fail. When we are faithless, He is faithful. We need to obey Him. Bible Reference Exodus 3:14; Exodus 6:2-4 Exodus 34:5-7; Psalm 102 Comments Pronounced: juhHO-vah A 16th century German translator wrote the name YHVH (YHWH) using the vowels of Adonai, because the ancient Jewish texts from which he was translating had the vowels of Adonai under the consonants of YHVH. By doing this, he incorrectly came up with the name YaHoVaH.

Name of God Jehovah

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. What does it mean when we say that God is faithful? List five example=s of how God has shown his faithfulness in your life. Why do you think God cares about faithfulness in our lives? Write a short prayer to God as Jehovah.

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PART 7, JEHOVAH RAPHA Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning The Lord Who Heals God has provided the final cure for spiritual, physical, and emotional sickness in Jesus Christ. Application God can heal us. Bible Reference Exodus 15:25-27; Psalm 103:3; Psalm 147:3 (1 Peter 2:24) Comments Pronounced: juhHO-vah RAH-fah Also known as YHWH-Rapha. Jesus demonstrated that He was Jehovah-Rapha in his healing of the sick, blind, lame, and casting out demons. Jesus also heals His people from sin and unrighteousness. (Luke 5:31, 32)

Name of God Jehovah-Rapha

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. What does it mean to you when we say that God is a healing God? List five areas of your life where you need Gods healing? Why do you think that God cares about healing us? Write a short prayer to God as Jehovah Rahpai.

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PART 8, JEHOVAH ROHI Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.

Name of God Jehovah-Rohi

Meaning The Lord is My Shepherd

Application The Lord protects, provides, directs, leads, and cares for His people. God tenderly takes care of us as a strong and patient shepherd.

Bible Reference Psalm 23:1-3; Isaiah 53:6 (Jn. 10:14-18; Heb. 13:20; Rev. 7:17)

Comments Pronounced: juhHO-vah RO-hee Also known as YHWH-Raah (RAH-ah). Jesus is the good shepherd who lay down His life for all people.

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. What does it mean to you when we say that The Lord is my Shepherd? Why do you think the Bible uses the Shepherd as an example of what God is like? In what ways are we like sheep? Why do you think that God cares about taking care of us? Write a short prayer to God as Jehovah Rohi.

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PART 9, JEHOVAH TSIDKENU Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning The Lord Our Righteousness Application Jesus is the King who would come from Davids line, and is the one who imparts His righteousness to us. Bible Reference Jer. 23:5, 6; 33:16; Ezekiel 36:26, 27 (2 Corinthians 5:21) Comments Pronounced: juhHO-vah tsid-KAYnoo Also known as YHWHTsidkenu. All people sin and fall short of Gods glory, but God freely makes us righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. (Romans 3:22, 23) God promised to send a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right. The people will live in safety. (Jeremiah 23:5, 6)

Name of God Jehovah-Tsidkenu

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. What does it mean to you when we say The Lord OUR righteousness? 2. God could have just commanded us to be righteous (which he does); but, through Christ, he became our righteousness. Why do you think God would do this for us? 3. Write a short prayer to God as Jehovah Tsidkenu.

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APPENDIX 4: The Names of God

PART 10, YHWY Did you know that in the Bible, more than a hundred different names are used to God? In todays society, a name is just a word we use to identify someone; but, in Bible times, a name was much more. It was a description of who they were and what they were like. We will examine ten of the most commonly used names for God in the Old and New Testaments. Our Goals To learn more about God is to study the names given to him in the Bible. To become more Godly by learning about these names and to ask God to make us more like him. To become more effective in our prayer life as we become more aware of the qualities of God.
Meaning The One Who Is The Self-Existent One Application God never changes. His promises never fail. When we are faithless, He is faithful. Bible Reference Exodus 3:14; Malachi 3:6 Comments Pronounced: YAHway Gods personal name given to Moses. Also called the tetragrammaton (four letters). Occurs about 6,800 times. Translated LORD in English versions of the Bible, because it became common practice for Jews to say Lord (Adonai) instead of saying the name YHWH.

Name of God YHWH I AM,

Read the chart and the scripture verses provided. Write your answers in the space below. Use the back of this page if you need more room. 1. The Jews so revered the name of God that they would not say the word out loud nor write it fullythats why no vowels were used. Though this was a tradition and not a command of God that they do so, what might we learn today about showing respect to for the Lord? 2. List five things, from this day forward that you will do to show respect for the Lord. 3. Of all the names of God we have studied, which name do you most identify with at this time. 4. List five things you have learned these past days as youve studied the names of God.

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