Fallen World
castimonia
Porn Prayer
Originally posted at: https://potefwi.wordpress.com/2024/09/03/porn-prayer
Lord, before I plan to click on that image, remind me that what I will see is your image-bearer.
A son of Adam or a daughter of Eve who must not be an object of my exploitation because he or she is either an object of your just wrath or an object of your glorious grace.
I deserve the former, but you’ve given me the latter. So, make me a vessel of your grace. King David’s cup overflowed when he set his mind on you. Jesus said he is a spring of living water that never runs dry. Quench the deepest longings of my soul with yourself, dear Father. You who made me for Yourself.
You, Jesus, who turn scavengers into life givers because we are nourished by you. Have mercy on me, a sinner.
Show me the falsehood of what porn pretends to offer me. Show me the poison that it is. And turn me from a taker to a lover who is so full of you that I am free to love, with your love, an honest love, a giving love, a confident love, a bold love.
Set my heart, and my eyes, on the higher affections of Jesus Christ that I might imitate him. Empower me to see all people through your eyes, and with your heart. And help me to trust you to meet my real needs, in your time, and in your way.
Amen.
Navigating Conversations About Recovery
Originally posted at: https://wholeness-coaching.site/2024/09/06/navigating-conversations-about-recovery/
Talking about recovery can be challenging, especially when faced with stigma and judgment. However, open and honest communication can be a powerful tool for both individuals in recovery and those who support them.
Empowering and Validating Conversations
Here are some tips for having empowering and validating conversations about recovery:
- Be open and honest: Share your experiences and feelings honestly, without fear of judgment.
- Avoid negativity: Focus on the positive aspects of your recovery journey and avoid dwelling on negative experiences.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries and communicate your needs to others.
- Educate others: Help others understand the challenges of recovery and the importance of support.
- Find a supportive community: Connect with others who are also in recovery or who understand the challenges you’re facing.
Supporting Others in Recovery
If you know someone who is in recovery, here are some ways you can offer support:
- Be there for them: Let them know you’re there for them, regardless of their circumstances.
- Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for them to share their experiences and feelings.
- Offer encouragement: Remind them of their progress and the strength they’ve shown.
- Avoid enabling behaviors: Avoid behaviors that may contribute to their addiction or relapse.
- Encourage professional help: If necessary, encourage them to seek professional help and support.
Recovery is a personal journey, and everyone’s experience is unique. By fostering open and supportive conversations, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world for individuals in recovery.
Dumb Locusts
Originally posted at: http://www.theresstillhope.org
Like most of you, my addiction robbed me of a lot of years. When I finally got into recovery, I felt like I would never really know the fullness of God’s blessings again.
For me, it was too late.
Then I came across this gem from the Old Testament. “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten” (Joel 2:25).
That verse could be the mantra for every person in recovery from any addiction. The locusts have eaten so much – our time, relationships, character. Worse yet, we welcomed the locusts into our lives every time we fed our habit. But God gets the final word.
Life is about finishing strong.
Bear Bryant said, “Winning isn’t imperative, but getting tougher in the fourth quarter is.”
Caleb was a hero at age 85, while Joshua finished his work at 110. So for every reader under the age of 110, I leave you with this promise from God.
“I’m not done yet. The rest of your life will be the best of your life.”
Recovery Step: Never measure the activity of God by what you can see in the moment. The best is yet to come.
Castimonia Retreat Registration – ONLY 3 SPOTS LEFT!!!
There are only 3 spots left in this year’s retreat. Please register ASAP as there will not be any more room available after these spots are filled!
Remember, out of state guests receive free admission to the retreat. We also have full and half scholarships available if needed. Please contact info@castimonia.org.
Retreat Dates: November 8th – 10th
Early Registration through August 31st – $195 (now through September 14th)
Regular Registration September 1st – November 4th – $220 (now Sept. 15th – Nov. 4th)
For more information or to register please use the link below:
