Two ways we get into big trouble are by underestimating God and overestimating ourselves.
Oscar Wilde said it well: “I think God, in creating man, somewhat overestimated his ability.”
Jesus said it even better: “Without me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Step 1 says we are powerless over our addiction. Coming to grips with our powerlessness is the gateway to freedom. Admitting one’s powerlessness simply means acknowledging that no amount of self-control is going to change the way our addiction has affected out brains.
In working with recovering sex addicts, I have found several similarities in the success stories:
- Attending 12-Step meetings
- Seeing a therapist, usually a CSAT
- Working the Steps
- Surrender to God
- Accountability
- Protection on personal devices, usually with Covenant Eyes
And this is what I find most common among those who fail in recovery:
- Self-reliance
The good news is that you can find recovery. The sobering news is that you can’t do it on your own.
Recovery Step: Don’t underestimate God. Don’t overestimate yourself.
