Positive affirmations of grace in recovery

“There but for the grace of God go I.”

Should we rely on the grace of God or our own works in order to grow closer to a Higher Power? Maybe shifting the paradigm of our old beliefs is a good start. Affirm the goodness of life!

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“There but for the grace of God go I.”

Should we rely on the grace of God or our own works in order to grow closer to a Higher Power? Well, I think it’s a combination of both. But, I can personally get carried away with trying so hard. Many people (myself included) carry on with life trying to prove to themselves, others, and God how GOOD they are. What a conundrum! Imperfect self trying to be perfect only make ANOTHER mistake and wind up in regret.

God’s grace is full and complete forgiveness for our mistakes and imperfections. It is the cornerstone of my own recovery and is the bridge to union with something greater than myself. When I become responsible for my own shortcomings and offer myself to be guided…I am a new person. And the wonderful thing about grace is that it is available to us at any moment. Thank goodness. 🙂

My first sponsor recommended I post affirmations around the house to help me change my thinking patterns and by extension, the core beliefs I have about how BAD and WRONG I am. In early recovery, this was a lifesaver! However, I found that this practice works only insofar as you consciously take time to read affirmations… so I recommend placing positive affirmations in awkward or surprising places around the house or to move your affirmations weekly. Some possible spots include:

  • Beside the toilet paper dispenser
  • Near the thermostat
  • Beside your keys
  • Under or on a mirror
  • On the nightstand
  • On a light switch
  • On the refrigerator door handle
  • On any door handle

Near the stove, kitchen sink, or a frequently used food appliance

Let’s now, in the style of Lousie Hay, attempt to replace patterns of thinking with affirmations of truth. Possible affirmations that you can use to increase your awareness of grace might include:

  1. I am a child of God.
  2. I can only try my best.
  3. I am loved.
  4. I am becoming exactly what God wants me to be.
  5. The past has brought me here to this moment in time.
  6. Smile, God loves you.

Do you use affirmations? Which positive affirmations have helped you in your recovery? Do affirmations actually help people recovering from addictions or are they simply a “bandage” for our thinking? What do YOU think?

About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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