Philippians 3:12 - 14 (NIV)
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Leaving The Past Behind You
By Rebecca Osborn
I read this quote by Rick Warren recently that really got me thinking.
"We are products of our past, but we do not have to be prisoners of it. God's purpose is not limited by your past. He turned a murderer named Moses into a leader and a coward named Gideon into a courageous hero, and he can do amazing things with the rest of your life, too. God specializes in giving people a fresh start."
Your past is a tricky thing. It has shaped you .You are who you are today because of it. It has made you who you are. If it was difficult or painful, you cannot just cut yourself off from it. However, to be healthy, productive, and successful, you cannot stay stuck in it either.
Here are a few tips to help you break free from your past and focus on your future.
1. Choose Healthy Programming.
This may sound a bit spooky and weird, but let me explain! When you were born into this world, you were born with a "blank slate." From then on, you began receiving "programming" from your parents, teachers, church, peers, community, and media. So, a large part of your past is your programming.
As an adult with free will, you need to choose healthy, positive, healing, motivational, and inspirational programing. You need to begin reading books and listening to audio and watching movies or shows that convey the value of the human spirit and focus on the potential of mankind. This may seem awkward at first because, even though your past programming is negative and painful, you are familiar with it and even feel safe with it. But over time, you will become comfortable with positive programming. You will feel happier and you will like yourself, which will lead to more productivity and success.
CHOOSE positive, healthy, inspirational programming. Read good books, listen to good audio, watch good TV, and socialize with positive people.
2. Realise That The Past Is Over.
Another thing you need to do to get a handle on your past is to put it into perspective. Most people consider their past to be their childhood and their teenage years. OK, let's say that's 18 years. Nowadays, most people live to be 70 or 80. So that is only 25% of your life. You can CHOOSE to program yourself with positive input and make the remaining 75% of your life one that is healthy, happy, productive, and successful.
3. Realise That Your Past Does Not Determine Your Future.
It is to easy to let what has happened in the past influence what you do in the future. For example, if you failed in a certain area before and focus on that, you end up saying things in your mind like "I failed then so I will fail now," or "I am damaged goods and I will never amount to anything."
BUT You could just as truthfully say, "I choose to learn from my past. My past taught me what NOT to do. My past challenges and trials made me stronger so I can face the real world today. I went through what I did so I can help others," and so on.
Your past may have been a difficult time, but you can steps like the ones listed above to keep it from messing up your present and your future.
Your past does not have to equal your present or YOUR FUTURE.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Osborn
http://EzineArticles.com/?Leaving-The-Past-Behind-You&id=776068
Friday, December 21, 2007
Having A Blue Christmas?
If your Christmas seems more blue than white this year, here are some tips to help you cope...
* If your family is more like Roseanne's than The Waltons, you're in good company. You're a real family and there very well may be arguments and rivalries among siblings. If Mom has always criticized you, she probably will this Christmas, too. Still, you don't have to let old patterns ruin your holiday. Remember you can't control your family members' actions, but you can control your reaction to them. This year use those challenging moments to practice forgiveness and acceptance. When all else fails, give yourself a time-out with a sympathetic listener and vent your frustrations.
* Share your time or resources with someone less fortunate. Volunteer at a homeless shelter for a day, deliver gifts to a retirement center, donate money to a worthy cause.
* Just say no! If you don't have time to do something, say so. Delegate responsibility for the `must dos' to other people...even kids can help straighten the house, take care of pets, wrap a few gifts.
* Don't judge the value of a gift by its price tag. If you give from the heart, your gift is never too small.
* Remember that things will go wrong. Kids get dirty, make noise, and argue. You may forget to buy the batteries, thaw the turkey, wrap the final gift in the back of the closet. Travel plans can go awry, dogs will jump on your party dress with their muddy paws, cookies may burn. Learn that these are minor setbacks...not major catastrophes! Practice coping with grace. Stop striving for unrealistic perfection.
* Can't be with someone you love because of divorce, death, finances, or other commitments? Find a creative way to make the holiday special. Spend time with a friend in a similar circumstance. Reach out to others who may be alone. Or, if possible, arrange to spend another day together as `Christmas.'
This Christmas try to be accepting of your feelings, your family, your shortcomings, and your desire to lead a better life. Share your love, strive for peace and good will. Reach out to your father in prayer and ask for strength to maintain your path to recovery.
* If your family is more like Roseanne's than The Waltons, you're in good company. You're a real family and there very well may be arguments and rivalries among siblings. If Mom has always criticized you, she probably will this Christmas, too. Still, you don't have to let old patterns ruin your holiday. Remember you can't control your family members' actions, but you can control your reaction to them. This year use those challenging moments to practice forgiveness and acceptance. When all else fails, give yourself a time-out with a sympathetic listener and vent your frustrations.
* Share your time or resources with someone less fortunate. Volunteer at a homeless shelter for a day, deliver gifts to a retirement center, donate money to a worthy cause.
* Just say no! If you don't have time to do something, say so. Delegate responsibility for the `must dos' to other people...even kids can help straighten the house, take care of pets, wrap a few gifts.
* Don't judge the value of a gift by its price tag. If you give from the heart, your gift is never too small.
* Remember that things will go wrong. Kids get dirty, make noise, and argue. You may forget to buy the batteries, thaw the turkey, wrap the final gift in the back of the closet. Travel plans can go awry, dogs will jump on your party dress with their muddy paws, cookies may burn. Learn that these are minor setbacks...not major catastrophes! Practice coping with grace. Stop striving for unrealistic perfection.
* Can't be with someone you love because of divorce, death, finances, or other commitments? Find a creative way to make the holiday special. Spend time with a friend in a similar circumstance. Reach out to others who may be alone. Or, if possible, arrange to spend another day together as `Christmas.'
This Christmas try to be accepting of your feelings, your family, your shortcomings, and your desire to lead a better life. Share your love, strive for peace and good will. Reach out to your father in prayer and ask for strength to maintain your path to recovery.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Shopping Spree or Shopping Addiction?
Shopping could be called one of America's favorite pastimes, but what happens when it spirals out of control, and in some cases, becomes an addiction?
Compulsive shopping and spending is defined as inappropriate, excessive, and out of control. Sometimes referred to as "shopoholism," shopping addiction can wreak havoc on your life, your family, and your finances.
So what are some of the signs that shopping has crossed the line and become an addiction? What should a concerned family member or friend look out for when they think shopping has become a problem?
* Spending over budget. Everyone goes over budget at times, but if it's a consistent behavior you or your loved one could be in trouble.
* Compulsive buying. If you go shopping for one pair of shoes and come out with 10, it could signify a problem.
* It's a chronic problem. Addictions are continuous problems. They're more than two or three months of the year, and more than a once-a-year Christmas shopping spree.
* Hiding the problem. Like other addictions, Shopoholics will hide their purchases because they don't want their significant other to know. They may have secret credit card accounts, too. Because this problem affects mostly women, as alcoholism affects mostly men, husbands will all of sudden be told their wife is $20,000-$30,000 in debt and they are responsible, and many times, this comes out in divorce
* A vicious circle. Some people will take their purchases back because they feel guilty. Debt may not be an issue because they're consistently returning things, but a problem still exists.
* Impaired relationships. Problems in relationships can occur because the person spends time away from home to shop, covers up debt with deception, and emotionally and physically starts to isolate themselves.
If you, or a loved one, has lost control of spending habits now is the time to turn to Celebrate Recovery for help. Our goal is to no longer rely on our dysfunctional, compulsive, and addictive behaviors as a temporary "fix" for our pain. We apply the 12 steps of recovery based on the scriptures, to experience healing and stronger relationships with others and God.
Meetings are Wednesdays at 7:00 P.M. You're invited to come to a safe place of fellowship and caring where you will have the opportunity to find joy, serenity, and the peace of God restored in your life.
Come and celebrate God's healing power!
Compulsive shopping and spending is defined as inappropriate, excessive, and out of control. Sometimes referred to as "shopoholism," shopping addiction can wreak havoc on your life, your family, and your finances.
So what are some of the signs that shopping has crossed the line and become an addiction? What should a concerned family member or friend look out for when they think shopping has become a problem?
* Spending over budget. Everyone goes over budget at times, but if it's a consistent behavior you or your loved one could be in trouble.
* Compulsive buying. If you go shopping for one pair of shoes and come out with 10, it could signify a problem.
* It's a chronic problem. Addictions are continuous problems. They're more than two or three months of the year, and more than a once-a-year Christmas shopping spree.
* Hiding the problem. Like other addictions, Shopoholics will hide their purchases because they don't want their significant other to know. They may have secret credit card accounts, too. Because this problem affects mostly women, as alcoholism affects mostly men, husbands will all of sudden be told their wife is $20,000-$30,000 in debt and they are responsible, and many times, this comes out in divorce
* A vicious circle. Some people will take their purchases back because they feel guilty. Debt may not be an issue because they're consistently returning things, but a problem still exists.
* Impaired relationships. Problems in relationships can occur because the person spends time away from home to shop, covers up debt with deception, and emotionally and physically starts to isolate themselves.
If you, or a loved one, has lost control of spending habits now is the time to turn to Celebrate Recovery for help. Our goal is to no longer rely on our dysfunctional, compulsive, and addictive behaviors as a temporary "fix" for our pain. We apply the 12 steps of recovery based on the scriptures, to experience healing and stronger relationships with others and God.
Meetings are Wednesdays at 7:00 P.M. You're invited to come to a safe place of fellowship and caring where you will have the opportunity to find joy, serenity, and the peace of God restored in your life.
Come and celebrate God's healing power!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Managing the Holidays
Christmas, end of year reflections, decorations, good food, family time, holiday music, gifts...'tis the season to celebrate! For many of us it can also be a time of year when memories of loved ones we've lost come pouring into our minds, feelings of sadness can overwhelm us, and stressful situations with our friends and families are magnified. These feelings can trigger us into comprising our recovery.
Depression
It's not unusual for depression to accompany the anxiety of the holiday season. Because depression can make recovery difficult, extra care should be taken to deal with it as soon as the symptoms are detected. Call your accountability partner or ministry leader, attend a Celebrate Recovery, get some exercise! Depression is real and it hurts,with God's help you can feel better.
Stress
Holidays are stressful for many of us. Stress is your body's reaction to internal and external change. For most people, the holidays involve a great deal of change. Changes may be little: perhaps you have a lot of guests coming and you'll have to rearrange various rooms in your house. And changes may be huge: maybe this is your first holiday without one of your parents, your spouse, or children.
Don't underestimate the impact of those "little" changes. Stress can build up quickly, making you vulnerable to your specific triggers.
Stress might cause a relapse or, at least, halt your recovery for a while. As with depression, it's important to be aware of what's going on inside. You know right now that the next couple of weeks will be stressful. You can't control everything that will happen, but you can learn how to cope with your reactions.
We can't prevent most changes in life, and we probably wouldn't want to! The holidays can be a wonderful time of celebrating and being in the company of good people. Since you cannot prevent change and, therefore, cannot prevent stress, you'll want to learn the many ways you can cope with stress.
Grief
You may find yourself grieving during the holidays for any number of reasons. We grieve if a loved one dies, but other major losses may cause grief as well. Family relationships may produce intense emotions. Maybe one of your children will be away during the holidays this year. Maybe there was a family conflict during the year, and you won't be seeing certain relatives. Many situations like these can produce feelings of emptiness and loss.
For whatever reason you may be grieving, it's important to learn about grief and how you can cope with the situation. Don't underestimate the impact grief may have on you during a particular day. Reach out to family members and friends who may have experienced the same loss.
Loneliness
Holidays may produce intense feelings of loneliness, particularly because so many of us have ideals of what the "perfect" holiday should be. It's possible to feel lonely even with a group of people, particularly if that one special person is missing from the group.
Loneliness can hit hard and quickly. Don't think of yourself as immune from such feelings. Additionally, loneliness is an emotion that feeds depression. Think about where you will be this holiday season and how it will make you feel. Even if you will be alone during part of the holidays, you can plan ways to make yourself comfortable. One idea is to have several phone numbers of “buddies” available to call. Tell your support friends and your accountability partner that you might be calling during a specific time.
If you're looking for a safe place to share your struggles, strengths, hurts, and hopes with others, Celebrate Recovery may be for you. In a Christ-centered recovery
process, we work to overcome our negative and addictive behavior through community, scripture, and worship. For more information please contact John at 314-974-0873.
Celebrate Recovery meets Wednesday nights at 7:00pm at the McKnight Road Church of Christ in St. Louis, Missouri. Everyone is welcome! Please join us.
Depression
It's not unusual for depression to accompany the anxiety of the holiday season. Because depression can make recovery difficult, extra care should be taken to deal with it as soon as the symptoms are detected. Call your accountability partner or ministry leader, attend a Celebrate Recovery, get some exercise! Depression is real and it hurts,with God's help you can feel better.
Stress
Holidays are stressful for many of us. Stress is your body's reaction to internal and external change. For most people, the holidays involve a great deal of change. Changes may be little: perhaps you have a lot of guests coming and you'll have to rearrange various rooms in your house. And changes may be huge: maybe this is your first holiday without one of your parents, your spouse, or children.
Don't underestimate the impact of those "little" changes. Stress can build up quickly, making you vulnerable to your specific triggers.
Stress might cause a relapse or, at least, halt your recovery for a while. As with depression, it's important to be aware of what's going on inside. You know right now that the next couple of weeks will be stressful. You can't control everything that will happen, but you can learn how to cope with your reactions.
We can't prevent most changes in life, and we probably wouldn't want to! The holidays can be a wonderful time of celebrating and being in the company of good people. Since you cannot prevent change and, therefore, cannot prevent stress, you'll want to learn the many ways you can cope with stress.
Grief
You may find yourself grieving during the holidays for any number of reasons. We grieve if a loved one dies, but other major losses may cause grief as well. Family relationships may produce intense emotions. Maybe one of your children will be away during the holidays this year. Maybe there was a family conflict during the year, and you won't be seeing certain relatives. Many situations like these can produce feelings of emptiness and loss.
For whatever reason you may be grieving, it's important to learn about grief and how you can cope with the situation. Don't underestimate the impact grief may have on you during a particular day. Reach out to family members and friends who may have experienced the same loss.
Loneliness
Holidays may produce intense feelings of loneliness, particularly because so many of us have ideals of what the "perfect" holiday should be. It's possible to feel lonely even with a group of people, particularly if that one special person is missing from the group.
Loneliness can hit hard and quickly. Don't think of yourself as immune from such feelings. Additionally, loneliness is an emotion that feeds depression. Think about where you will be this holiday season and how it will make you feel. Even if you will be alone during part of the holidays, you can plan ways to make yourself comfortable. One idea is to have several phone numbers of “buddies” available to call. Tell your support friends and your accountability partner that you might be calling during a specific time.
If you're looking for a safe place to share your struggles, strengths, hurts, and hopes with others, Celebrate Recovery may be for you. In a Christ-centered recovery
process, we work to overcome our negative and addictive behavior through community, scripture, and worship. For more information please contact John at 314-974-0873.
Celebrate Recovery meets Wednesday nights at 7:00pm at the McKnight Road Church of Christ in St. Louis, Missouri. Everyone is welcome! Please join us.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
You don’t have to overspend to celebrate the holidays!
Even for people who aren’t compulsive spenders, the holidays are often an excuse to ”blow the budget,” take on more debt, and go overboard on gifts for our friends or family. If overspending during the holidays is one of your patterns, now’s the time to develop an action plan! Remember: Being in recovery means becoming more responsible for our actions.
Before heading out to the mall this year, make a list of the ways you’re powerless over spending and shopping. Reflect on the ways your life has become unmanageable due to your overspending. Pray for strength to combat your weaknesses. Share your concerns with your accountability partner. Come to our weekly Celebrate Recovery meetings. Create a spending plan and commit to not exceeding your budget. Substitute a gratitude list for your usual shopping list. Finally, during your daily time with God, meditate on the true meaning of the holiday season.
Before heading out to the mall this year, make a list of the ways you’re powerless over spending and shopping. Reflect on the ways your life has become unmanageable due to your overspending. Pray for strength to combat your weaknesses. Share your concerns with your accountability partner. Come to our weekly Celebrate Recovery meetings. Create a spending plan and commit to not exceeding your budget. Substitute a gratitude list for your usual shopping list. Finally, during your daily time with God, meditate on the true meaning of the holiday season.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Dealing with Loss
You've heard the expression that "time heals all wounds." Unfortunately, in most cases it isn't true. No doubt you know people who are still carrying hurts from 30 or 40 years ago. The truth is - time often makes things worse. Wounds that are left untended fester and spread infection throughout your entire body. Time only extends the pain if the problem isn't dealt with. Celebrate Recovery can help you deal with your pain and loss. Our group is made up of people just like you, people who understand what you're experiencing. Together we share comfort and encouragement in a safe place where we can experience God's healing power. Join us Wednesdays at 7:00pm at the McKnight Road Church of Christ.
James 4:7-8
...obey God. Stand up to the devil. He will run away from you. Come near to God, and he will come near to you.
Monday, November 26, 2007
What is Co-Dependence
* My good feelings about who I am stem from being loved by you.
* My good feelings about who I am stem from receiving approval from you.
* Your struggle affects my serenity. My mental attention focuses on solving your problems or relieving your pain.
* My mental attention is focused on pleasing you.
* My mental attention is focused on protecting you.
* My self-esteem is bolstered by solving your problems.
* My self-esteem is bolstered by relieving your pain.
* My own hobbies and interests are put aside. My time is spent sharing your interests and hobbies.
* Your clothing and personal appearance are dictated by my desires as I feel you are a reflection of me.
* Your behavior is dictated by my desires as I feel you are a reflection of me.
* I am not aware of how I feel. I am aware of how you feel.
* I am not aware of what I want -- I ask what you want. I am not aware -- I assume.
* The dreams I have for my future are linked to you.
* My fear of rejection determines what I say or do.
* My fear of your anger determines what I say or do.
* I use giving as a way of feeling safe in our relationship.
* My social circle diminishes as I involve myself with you.
* I put my values aside in order to connect with you.
* I value your opinion and way of doing things more than my own.
* The quality of my life is in direct relation to the quality of yours.
THERE IS A SOLUTION
By working through the eight recovery principles found in the Beatitudes with Jesus Christ as your Higher Power, you can and will change! You will begin to experience the true peace and serenity you have been seeking, and you will no longer have to rely on your codependent behaviors as a temporary "fix" for your pain.
* My good feelings about who I am stem from receiving approval from you.
* Your struggle affects my serenity. My mental attention focuses on solving your problems or relieving your pain.
* My mental attention is focused on pleasing you.
* My mental attention is focused on protecting you.
* My self-esteem is bolstered by solving your problems.
* My self-esteem is bolstered by relieving your pain.
* My own hobbies and interests are put aside. My time is spent sharing your interests and hobbies.
* Your clothing and personal appearance are dictated by my desires as I feel you are a reflection of me.
* Your behavior is dictated by my desires as I feel you are a reflection of me.
* I am not aware of how I feel. I am aware of how you feel.
* I am not aware of what I want -- I ask what you want. I am not aware -- I assume.
* The dreams I have for my future are linked to you.
* My fear of rejection determines what I say or do.
* My fear of your anger determines what I say or do.
* I use giving as a way of feeling safe in our relationship.
* My social circle diminishes as I involve myself with you.
* I put my values aside in order to connect with you.
* I value your opinion and way of doing things more than my own.
* The quality of my life is in direct relation to the quality of yours.
THERE IS A SOLUTION
By working through the eight recovery principles found in the Beatitudes with Jesus Christ as your Higher Power, you can and will change! You will begin to experience the true peace and serenity you have been seeking, and you will no longer have to rely on your codependent behaviors as a temporary "fix" for your pain.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Is Celebrate Recovery for You?
What is a hurt, habit or hang-up?
Abuse, Alcohol, Divorce, Anger, Tobacco, Co-Dependency, Drugs, Sex, Pornography, Need to Control, Care-taking, Compulsive Behavior, Depression…
Anything that hinders our walk with God!
Everyone is welcome
Wednesday Nights
7:00pm
McKnight Road Church of Christ
St. Louis, Missouri
Call 314-974-0873 for more information
Abuse, Alcohol, Divorce, Anger, Tobacco, Co-Dependency, Drugs, Sex, Pornography, Need to Control, Care-taking, Compulsive Behavior, Depression…
Anything that hinders our walk with God!
Everyone is welcome
Wednesday Nights
7:00pm
McKnight Road Church of Christ
St. Louis, Missouri
Call 314-974-0873 for more information
Monday, November 19, 2007
Daily Recovery Checklist
When you're on the road to recovery, how do you keep from falling back into your old ways? Take a look at the following checklist.
Post your comments about what helps you!
1. In the morning pray, ask God to help keep you from your hurt, habit or hang-up.
2. Read the Bible, other inspirational books, and informational literature on your specific area of recovery.
3. Call someone in recovery and stay accountable.
4. Go to a recovery meeting, Bible study, or meet with your accountability partner...get fed daily!
5. In the evening pray, thank God for helping you throughout the day.
Post your comments about what helps you!
1. In the morning pray, ask God to help keep you from your hurt, habit or hang-up.
2. Read the Bible, other inspirational books, and informational literature on your specific area of recovery.
3. Call someone in recovery and stay accountable.
4. Go to a recovery meeting, Bible study, or meet with your accountability partner...get fed daily!
5. In the evening pray, thank God for helping you throughout the day.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
4th Step Spiritual Inventory
Whew! It was great to get together and work on our fourth step inventories. I think we all made some good progress. Remember it's a process...and there are no right or wrong answers. God doesn't expect perfection!
Friday, November 16, 2007
Our Bodies Are To Be A Living Gift To God
Romans 12:1-2 (NLV)
1 Christian brothers, I ask you from my heart to give your bodies to God because of His loving-kindness to us. Let your bodies be a living and holy gift given to God. He is pleased with this kind of gift. This is the true worship that you should give Him. 2 Do not act like the sinful people of the world. Let God change your life. First of all, let Him give you a new mind. Then you will know what God wants you to do. And the things you do will be good and pleasing and perfect.
1 Christian brothers, I ask you from my heart to give your bodies to God because of His loving-kindness to us. Let your bodies be a living and holy gift given to God. He is pleased with this kind of gift. This is the true worship that you should give Him. 2 Do not act like the sinful people of the world. Let God change your life. First of all, let Him give you a new mind. Then you will know what God wants you to do. And the things you do will be good and pleasing and perfect.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Serenity Prayer
God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as a pathway to peace; taking, as Jesus did , this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will; so that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with You forever in the next.
In Jesus' Name, Amen
-Reinhold Niebuhr
In Jesus' Name, Amen
-Reinhold Niebuhr
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
What are you saying to yourself?
What we say to ourselves is powerful! Listen to the voice in your head and see if you can't turn some of the negatives into postive, helpful statements. Here are some examples:
This is hopeless.... I can't! I'm paralyzed with fear!
Act As If
I've got to understand everything before I do anything.
Analysis Is Paralysis
I've got to fix it now! It's time to get running.
Don't Just Do Something, Sit There
I'm bad. I'm unworthy. I must whip myself into shape.
Easy Does It
I've got to do it all at once. Who needs priorities?
First Things First
My life depends on it!
How Important Is It?
It seems really complicated...
Keep It Simple
I've got to hang on to it... I don't trust...I must do it myself.
Let Go And Let God
I don't want to hear it. I already know it. I know everything.
Listen And Learn
It drives me crazy when people do that.
Live And Let Live
It's too much for me... I feel overwhelmed by the future.
One Day At A Time
I've got to do everything perfectly. I've got to be perfect.
Progress Not Perfection
I feel like I will die if I don't get some relief.
This Too Shall Pass
I can’t believe he/she did that to me. I will get revenge.
Hurt People - Hurt People
It’s not possible for good to come out of this situation.
God Never Wastes A Hurt
Here I am, back in the same mess again.
Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes
This is not working for me. I give up.
Don’t Quit Before the Miracle
I am so mad I can’t even think straight.
Those Who Anger You Control You
I won’t stop until I prove that I am right.
Do You Want To Be Right - Or Well?
My mind is running in a million different directions.
Keep The Main Thing -The Main Thing
This is hopeless.... I can't! I'm paralyzed with fear!
Act As If
I've got to understand everything before I do anything.
Analysis Is Paralysis
I've got to fix it now! It's time to get running.
Don't Just Do Something, Sit There
I'm bad. I'm unworthy. I must whip myself into shape.
Easy Does It
I've got to do it all at once. Who needs priorities?
First Things First
My life depends on it!
How Important Is It?
It seems really complicated...
Keep It Simple
I've got to hang on to it... I don't trust...I must do it myself.
Let Go And Let God
I don't want to hear it. I already know it. I know everything.
Listen And Learn
It drives me crazy when people do that.
Live And Let Live
It's too much for me... I feel overwhelmed by the future.
One Day At A Time
I've got to do everything perfectly. I've got to be perfect.
Progress Not Perfection
I feel like I will die if I don't get some relief.
This Too Shall Pass
I can’t believe he/she did that to me. I will get revenge.
Hurt People - Hurt People
It’s not possible for good to come out of this situation.
God Never Wastes A Hurt
Here I am, back in the same mess again.
Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes
This is not working for me. I give up.
Don’t Quit Before the Miracle
I am so mad I can’t even think straight.
Those Who Anger You Control You
I won’t stop until I prove that I am right.
Do You Want To Be Right - Or Well?
My mind is running in a million different directions.
Keep The Main Thing -The Main Thing
Sunday, November 11, 2007
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Anger Self Evaluation
The following inventory can help you determine whether your anger is reaching a destructive level in your life.
• I become impatient easily when things do not go according to my plan.
• I tend to have critical thoughts toward others who don't agree with my opinions.
• When I am displeased with someone I may shut down any communication with them or
withdraw entirely.
• I get annoyed easily when friends and family do not appear sensitive to my needs.
• I feel frustrated when I see someone else having an easier time than me.
• Whenever I am responsible for planning an important event, I am preoccupied with how I must manage it.
• When talking about a controversial topic, the tone of my voice is likely to become louder more assertive.
• I can accept a person who admits his or her mistakes, but I get irritated easily at those who refuse to admit their weaknesses.
• I do not easily forget when someone does me wrong.
• When someone confronts me with a misinformed opinion, I am thinking of my comeback
even while they are speaking.
• I find myself becoming aggressive even while playing a game for fun.
• I struggle emotionally with the things in life that aren't fair.
• Although I realize that it may not be right, I sometimes blame others for my problems.
• More often than not, I use sarcasm as a way of expressing humor.
• I may act kindly toward others on the outside, yet feel bitter and frustrated on the inside.
If you recognize 4-8 of the above, your anger is probably more constant than you would like. If you identified with 9 or more boxes, there's a strong possibility that you've struggled with periods of anger or rage, whether you're aware of it or not.
(Adapted from The Anger Workbook, written by Dr. Les Carter and Dr. Frank Minirth)
• I become impatient easily when things do not go according to my plan.
• I tend to have critical thoughts toward others who don't agree with my opinions.
• When I am displeased with someone I may shut down any communication with them or
withdraw entirely.
• I get annoyed easily when friends and family do not appear sensitive to my needs.
• I feel frustrated when I see someone else having an easier time than me.
• Whenever I am responsible for planning an important event, I am preoccupied with how I must manage it.
• When talking about a controversial topic, the tone of my voice is likely to become louder more assertive.
• I can accept a person who admits his or her mistakes, but I get irritated easily at those who refuse to admit their weaknesses.
• I do not easily forget when someone does me wrong.
• When someone confronts me with a misinformed opinion, I am thinking of my comeback
even while they are speaking.
• I find myself becoming aggressive even while playing a game for fun.
• I struggle emotionally with the things in life that aren't fair.
• Although I realize that it may not be right, I sometimes blame others for my problems.
• More often than not, I use sarcasm as a way of expressing humor.
• I may act kindly toward others on the outside, yet feel bitter and frustrated on the inside.
If you recognize 4-8 of the above, your anger is probably more constant than you would like. If you identified with 9 or more boxes, there's a strong possibility that you've struggled with periods of anger or rage, whether you're aware of it or not.
(Adapted from The Anger Workbook, written by Dr. Les Carter and Dr. Frank Minirth)
Friday, November 9, 2007
Characteristics of Survivors of Abuse
Survivors of Abuse often…
¨ Hesitate to identify themselves as victims of abuse.
¨ Feel isolated, depressed, worthless, shameful and helpless to change.
¨ Struggle with negative feelings about God.
¨ Condemn themselves as responsible for the abuse.
¨ Deny that being abused in the past somehow affects present
circumstances.
¨ Lack self-control; feel defeated in areas of compulsive behaviors.
¨ Feel angry and/or bitter.
¨ Have trouble with authority figures.
¨ Have difficulty trusting others or place unwarranted trust in unsafe
individuals.
¨ Lack self-worth.
¨ Are preoccupied with thoughts of what it means to have a “normal”
relationship with others: friends, family, the opposite sex.
¨ Lack a healthy sexual identity.
¨ Act in sexually inappropriate ways.
¨ Question their self-identity—“Who am I?”
¨ Question whether life has a purpose or is worth living.
¨ Feel “at home” in crisis situations.
¨ Struggle with perfectionism or “all or nothing thinking”.
¨ Desire or fantasize about a better life.
If you're a survivor of abuse join us at Celebrate Recovery, Wednesday nights at 7:00pm, at the McKnight Road Church of Christ (click on the link for directions). Celebrate Recovery provides a safe environment for real life change in Jesus Christ, as we work through specific biblically-based recovery steps in the context of Christian community. We recognize the truth that we need each other to grow personally and spiritually.
¨ Hesitate to identify themselves as victims of abuse.
¨ Feel isolated, depressed, worthless, shameful and helpless to change.
¨ Struggle with negative feelings about God.
¨ Condemn themselves as responsible for the abuse.
¨ Deny that being abused in the past somehow affects present
circumstances.
¨ Lack self-control; feel defeated in areas of compulsive behaviors.
¨ Feel angry and/or bitter.
¨ Have trouble with authority figures.
¨ Have difficulty trusting others or place unwarranted trust in unsafe
individuals.
¨ Lack self-worth.
¨ Are preoccupied with thoughts of what it means to have a “normal”
relationship with others: friends, family, the opposite sex.
¨ Lack a healthy sexual identity.
¨ Act in sexually inappropriate ways.
¨ Question their self-identity—“Who am I?”
¨ Question whether life has a purpose or is worth living.
¨ Feel “at home” in crisis situations.
¨ Struggle with perfectionism or “all or nothing thinking”.
¨ Desire or fantasize about a better life.
If you're a survivor of abuse join us at Celebrate Recovery, Wednesday nights at 7:00pm, at the McKnight Road Church of Christ (click on the link for directions). Celebrate Recovery provides a safe environment for real life change in Jesus Christ, as we work through specific biblically-based recovery steps in the context of Christian community. We recognize the truth that we need each other to grow personally and spiritually.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Celebrate Recovery?
Celebrate Recovery is a nationwide recovery program based on God’s Word, the Bible. Christ began His sermon on the mount by stating eight ways to be happy, commonly referred to as "The Beatitudes." These eight principles are God’s road to recovery, wholeness, growth and spiritual maturity. Celebrate Recovery holds weekly “Open Meetings” on Wednesday nights. We have a lesson and a period of open sharing focusing on the 12-step recovery process.
Is Celebrate Recovery right for me?
Celebrate Recovery is for anyone who is seeking a God-mended life. If you have a hurt, habit, or hang-up, it’s for you. Ask yourself these questions:
Is there a habit, substance or compulsion dominating my life?Is there an addiction that has become destructive?Am I being controlled by something that is blocking me from experiencing joy in my life?Am I codependent on someone else’s addictions or habits?Is a past abuse in my life preventing me from being able to move forward?If you answered yes to any of these questions, then we urge you to attend a Celebrate Recovery meeting and see if you find it to be a safe place to start healing!
What types of issues does Celebrate Recovery address?
Celebrate Recovery addresses all types of habits, hurts, and hang-ups. Some recovery programs deal only with alcohol or drugs or another single problem.
What is the difference between Celebrate Recovery and AA (or other 12-step programs)?
The primary difference is that Celebrate Recovery focuses on Jesus Christ as the true Higher Power and uses God’s Word as the authority in relation to the Twelve Steps. AA traditionally uses a general interpretation of a Higher Power while Celebrate Recovery ties in to Christ's teachings as given in the Bible.
Is Celebrate Recovery confidential?
Yes, the Celebrate Recovery guidelines maintain strict confidentiality to create a “safe place” where you can take off the “mask” and be real and honest without fear. Confidentiality is a primary principle of the program.
Does Celebrate Recovery cost anything to attend?
Celebrate Recovery is a completely free ministry.
Do I have to be a member of the McKnight Road Church of Christ?
No, Celebrate Recovery is a ministry for anyone who is interested in Christ-centered recovery. You do not need to attend or be a member of the McKnight Road Church of Christ.
Celebrate Recovery is a nationwide recovery program based on God’s Word, the Bible. Christ began His sermon on the mount by stating eight ways to be happy, commonly referred to as "The Beatitudes." These eight principles are God’s road to recovery, wholeness, growth and spiritual maturity. Celebrate Recovery holds weekly “Open Meetings” on Wednesday nights. We have a lesson and a period of open sharing focusing on the 12-step recovery process.
Is Celebrate Recovery right for me?
Celebrate Recovery is for anyone who is seeking a God-mended life. If you have a hurt, habit, or hang-up, it’s for you. Ask yourself these questions:
Is there a habit, substance or compulsion dominating my life?Is there an addiction that has become destructive?Am I being controlled by something that is blocking me from experiencing joy in my life?Am I codependent on someone else’s addictions or habits?Is a past abuse in my life preventing me from being able to move forward?If you answered yes to any of these questions, then we urge you to attend a Celebrate Recovery meeting and see if you find it to be a safe place to start healing!
What types of issues does Celebrate Recovery address?
Celebrate Recovery addresses all types of habits, hurts, and hang-ups. Some recovery programs deal only with alcohol or drugs or another single problem.
What is the difference between Celebrate Recovery and AA (or other 12-step programs)?
The primary difference is that Celebrate Recovery focuses on Jesus Christ as the true Higher Power and uses God’s Word as the authority in relation to the Twelve Steps. AA traditionally uses a general interpretation of a Higher Power while Celebrate Recovery ties in to Christ's teachings as given in the Bible.
Is Celebrate Recovery confidential?
Yes, the Celebrate Recovery guidelines maintain strict confidentiality to create a “safe place” where you can take off the “mask” and be real and honest without fear. Confidentiality is a primary principle of the program.
Does Celebrate Recovery cost anything to attend?
Celebrate Recovery is a completely free ministry.
Do I have to be a member of the McKnight Road Church of Christ?
No, Celebrate Recovery is a ministry for anyone who is interested in Christ-centered recovery. You do not need to attend or be a member of the McKnight Road Church of Christ.
Celebrate Recovery Principles
[Based on the Beatitudes]
- Realize I'm not God; I admit I am powerless to control my tendency to do the wrong thing and my life is unmanageable. "Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor"
- Earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to Him, and that He has the power to help me recovery. "Happy are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted"
- Consciously choose to commit all my life and will to Christ's care and control. "Happy are the meek"
- Openly examine and confess my faults to God, to myself, and to another person whom I trust. "Happy are the pure in heart"
- Voluntarily submit to any and all changes God wants to make in my life. "Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires"
- Evaluate all my relationships; offer forgiveness to those who have hurt me and make amends for harm I've done to others when possible, without expecting any reward. "Happy are the merciful" "Happy are the peacemakers"
- Reserve a daily time with God for prayer, Bible reading, and self examination in order to know God and His will for my life and to gain the power to follow His will. "Happy are they who hunger and thirst after righteousness"
- Yield myself to be used by God to bring this Good News to others, both by my example and by my words. "Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires"
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Welcome to Celebrate Recovery
Celebrate Recovery meets Wednesday nights
7:00pm
McKnight Road Church of Christ
2515 S. McKnight Road
St. Louis, MO 63124
call 314-962-7026 or 314-974-0873 for more information
7:00pm
McKnight Road Church of Christ
2515 S. McKnight Road
St. Louis, MO 63124
call 314-962-7026 or 314-974-0873 for more information
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