“If we maintain our spiritual condition daily, we find it easier to deal with the pain and confusion.” Basic Text, page 92
When we embark on the journey of recovery, one of the most challenging aspects can be developing a belief in a Higher Power. Many of us come into recovery with a variety of preconceived notions and fears about spirituality. Some fear a punishing or vengeful God, while others may have no belief at all. It can be difficult to imagine that a loving Higher Power would care for us, especially if we feel burdened by guilt and shame from our past actions.
The path to finding faith requires us to confront and let go of old, unhelpful beliefs. This process often involves considerable time, effort, open-mindedness, and faith. Initially, many of us struggle with the idea of a loving Higher Power. We may have believed that if a loving Power existed, we wouldn’t have experienced the hardships we faced. However, through persistent effort and an open mind, we begin to develop a new understanding of spirituality.
Developing a working belief in a loving Higher Power is a gradual process. It involves reassessing our old beliefs, opening ourselves to new ideas, and experiencing the guidance and support of a Power greater than ourselves. This new understanding helps us navigate life’s challenges with a sense of support and direction, fostering a deeper sense of peace and resilience.
Even after establishing a belief in a Higher Power, maintaining that faith can be challenging, especially during difficult times. Major setbacks and the insecurities they bring can resurrect old fears and doubts. It is during these times that our faith is tested the most.
When faced with significant setbacks, it is natural to feel abandoned or question our faith. However, it is crucial to remember that our Higher Power has not deserted us. Instead, it is in these moments of pain and confusion that we need to trust our Higher Power even more. By maintaining our faith, we can navigate through tough times and emerge stronger.
During difficult times, we must reassure ourselves of our Higher Power’s presence and support. By reminding ourselves of the faith we have worked hard to build, we can find the strength to endure and grow through our challenges. This trust in a Higher Power is essential for our continued recovery and personal growth.
Maintaining our spiritual condition requires daily effort and commitment. Just as we work on our physical and emotional well-being, our spiritual health also needs regular attention. This daily maintenance helps us stay connected to our Higher Power and provides the strength and guidance needed to face life’s challenges.
There are various practices we can incorporate into our daily lives to maintain our spiritual condition:
Maintaining faith is an ongoing process. It requires us to trust in our Higher Power and the principles of our recovery program. By staying committed to our spiritual practices, we can navigate life’s ups and downs with greater ease and resilience.
Just for today, remember the effort you have put into building your faith in a loving, caring Higher Power. Trust in that Power to guide you through life’s challenges. Maintain your spiritual condition daily to find the strength and clarity needed to deal with pain and confusion.