“Although they knew God, they did not glorify him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened” (Romans 1:21).
The darkest heart is like a spooky basement at the bottom of stairs that get darker with each step downward. The first step is ingratitude, where we enjoy God’s provisions but fail to thank him. The next step is deception that leads us to ignore the light of God and his truth. Finally comes the darkest step of all – idolatry. It is here that we enter the world of unbelief, worshiping whatever we think will give us some light.
If you find yourself on this staircase, get off as quickly as possible. Return to the bright light of God by thanking him for his goodness.
Recovery Step: You will never walk in sobriety until you first learn to walk in the light. Walk in the light today.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
