Addiction affects all areas of our life so it’s only natural that in order to break the cycle, changes in each of those areas are also necessary. People, places and things absolutely matter when it comes to getting sober and can actually play a lead role in the sustainability of long-term recovery.
As Christians, we never want to get into the legalistic practice of creating “to do list” that we must follow in order to define ourselves as believers. But at the same time, there are certain things every Christian in recovery should do every day in order to overcome whatever form of addiction.
Creating routines that keep you on track are the cornerstone to recovery. When you have a good routine in place this helps life to be stabilized and it helps to build regimen so that you know where you’re going, what you’re doing and you stay in a state of more calmness and peace.
One of the first things you have to start being more mindful of are the places you spend your time. For someone trying to avoid drinking or drugging, it’s best to stay away from places that can cause temptations such a bars, clubs or concerts.
There is no need to put yourself in the position of watching other people drink or partake in vices you used to indulge in. You end up feeling left out and that mixed with the temptation right in front of you is a recipe for relapse.
Although, there’s no 12-step plan when it comes to the Christian faith, but there are certain things every Christian should do every day, towards a successful restoration and here are some.
- Create a fixed time for prayer: This is advisably done very early in the morning.
- Constantly study and meditate on the scriptures.
- Make time for yourself: Allow yourself at least 10, 15, or 30 minutes each day to reflect and journal your thoughts and feelings. Go for a walk, read a nice book, or pick up a healthy hobby to express yourself and stay focused on recovery.
Lastly, the things you do on a daily basis become a vital piece of working a solid recovery program. Working on yourself and getting stronger every day is where you need to focus all your efforts.
The idea is to break the patterns that lead to using or drinking and this starts with abstaining from people, places and things that keep you romanticizing and connected to your addiction. Creating new, healthier habits around who, where and how you spend your time is the foundation of maintaining sobriety.