Hope for Recovery: A 7-Day Plan for Those in RecoverySample

Day 1: Surrender to Your Story

We all have stories to tell, and a big part of your recovery going forward will be telling people all about yours. So what’s your story consist of? Well, it’s pretty simple. Just like the man born blind in today’s Gospel passage, all you need to do is talk about where you were, what happened and where you are now. You used to be blind, and now you can see.

As you begin to carry your message and live out your program, you will have opportunities to tell others your story. This is very important for you and for those who are listening. As you tell your story, it will bolster your internal sobriety. Your fortitude, your momentum, and your passion for life will grow. For the listener as they hear where you have been and where you are today, they quickly see that they are not alone. They will find strength and encouragement from hearing what’s happened to you.

So you need to know your story. It’s powerful. It’s life-changing! No matter where you have been, how much time you have or how many times you have attempted sobriety before, your story is special and unique. You have come alive and that’s a miracle in and of itself. You have been given an amazing second chance. This story of yours could change the world!

Take the time today to write down in detail how you have found hope and prepare to share your story where and when you can.

Pray:

God, it’s clear to me as I look back on my past that I have not surrendered to your will, your timing or your plans for my life. For that I am sorry and seek your forgiveness. With joy in my heart, I say that today is the day that I change this way of living. I am handing over all of my issues to you. Surrendering my addiction, the people that frustrate me, the circumstances I can’t control and the future that is uncertain, I am completely surrendering that your ways are better than mine. I choose to quit fighting, to give up, and rest in the fact that you have a future and hope planned for me. God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. But most of all, God, give me the strength to surrender my all to you every day. More of you, less of me. Amen!