The topic in my seven Freedom Groups a few weeks ago was “Triggers.” As part of the exercise, I had the guys in each group tell us what their primary trigger is, that makes them want to act out. The list began with the traditional H.A.L.T. triggers (hungry, angry, lonely, tired). I added two more: stress and boredom. You might be interested to see the results from the 81 responses:
- Loneliness: 24.7%
- Stress: 24.7%
- Anger: 23.5%
- Boredom: 22.2%
- Tired: 4.9$
- Hungry: 0%
I see two things here. First, H.A.L.T. should be changed to A.L.T., since hunger seems to be an overrated trigger.
Second, we all have different triggers. Take your pick: stress, anger, boredom, loneliness. They seem to hit at somewhat similar rates. But all that really matters is knowing the one that hits you the hardest.
Here’s the good news. “There is no temptation that comes against you that is not common to man. And with that temptation, God will make a way to escape” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Recovery Step: Know your triggers. Prepare a battle plan for each one. Then move forward in the power of the Holy Spirit.
