12 Steps of Addiction RecoverySample

Step 9 – Make Amends

In step 9, we make direct amends to those we have harmed through our addictive behaviors, unless doing so would cause harm to them or others.

In yesterday’s plan, we talked about how the Bible says that making amends is an important part of repentance and seeking forgiveness. We also discussed how, in Luke 19:8, Zacchaeus promises to make amends to those he has wronged, saying, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."

When making amends, it is important to approach the situation with humility and a willingness to take responsibility for our actions. In James 4:10, we are reminded to "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." It is also important to be willing to listen to the other person's perspective and feelings, and to do what we can to make things right.

While making amends can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, it is a crucial step in our recovery journey. By seeking to make things right with those we have harmed, we can find a sense of closure and begin to rebuild relationships that may have been damaged by our addictive behaviors. As we move forward in our recovery journey, we can find hope in the promise of 1 John 1:9, which says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Through this process of making amends, we can begin to repair damaged relationships and restore trust with those we have harmed. We can also experience the freedom that comes with taking responsibility for our actions and seeking to make things right. As we move forward in our recovery journey, we can find comfort in the promise of Psalm 32:5, which says, "Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.' And you forgave the guilt of my sin.”

Reflection Questions:

-What amends do I need to make to those I have harmed, both in terms of action and attitude?

-Am I willing to take responsibility for my actions and their impact on others? How can I make things right with those I have harmed, even if it may be uncomfortable or difficult?

-How can I trust in God's guidance and strength as I work to repair my relationships and live in a way that is in alignment with His will?

How can I stay accountable and seek support from others, such as a sponsor, counselor, or spiritual mentor, as I navigate this step?