God in a Box

According to A.A. (and all the other 12 step groups) the second step of recovery is:
“We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”
This step is usually a huge sticking point with most addicts and alcoholics. It was for me.

Some doubt and reject the existence of a Higher Power. Some actually believe that a “Higher Power” is out there somewhere, but they seriously doubt his ability or his willingness to do anything to help them.

To others, this “Higher Power” idea sounds too much like “God”. And “God” automatically brings up painful memories of judgment, condemnation, and punishment. Most addicts do not need any help in the “judgment, condemnation, and punishment” department. We have those covered. No one could shame, condemn, or judge us any harsher than we do ourselves.

I have always believed in a “Higher Power”. I had no trouble at all admitting that my “Higher Power” was the God of the Bible. But, because of my ego, I had the tendency to keep my “God” in a very tight little box. The God of my understanding only worked within the confines of my ability to deserve and earn his approval and help. In other words, “God” only helped the good people – sinners need not apply.

I was an extremely blessed man. I gave the glory and the thanks to God. But in my warped little mind, I was blessed because I deserved it. I had earned it. This type of thinking is what we addicts loving refer to as “Sick”

Romans 9:16 It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy.