Paul knew what it was to live in difficult times. He struggled in many areas. That is why his counsel to the church of Rome is so helpful to this day. Whether you are in recovery or married to someone who is, consider this simple formula for success.
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
Let’s break that down.
1. Be joyful in hope.
Charles Dickens wrote, “It’s always something, to know you’ve done the most you could. But, don’t leave off hoping, or it’s of no use doing anything. Hope, hope to the last!” Dickens was right. In your situation, there is hope – to the last.
2. Be patient in affliction.
Addiction brings pain to the addict and so many around her. But this can be a tremendous training period of preparation for the next battle. Charles Spurgeon said it like this: “The Lord gets his best soldiers out of the highlands of affliction.”
3. Be faithful in prayer.
No concern is too small. Missionary Corrie Ten Boom said, “Any concern too small to be turned into a prayer is too small to be made into a burden.” In other words, if it’s a burden, take it to the Lord.
Recovery Step: Try this formula today. Be joyful in hope. Be patient in affliction. Be faithful in prayer.
