Wednesday, January 17, 2018

The Need to Love God - Our Greatest Commandment

 

To love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength is all-consuming and all-encompassing. It is no lukewarm endeavor. It is total commitment of our very being - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually - to love of the Lord.

What is the greatest commandment? When the Sadducee's challenged Christ on the doctrine of resurrection, and he responded to their inquiry, the pharisee's were present and discussed among themselves how to engage in challenging Jesus. The Pharisee's maintained that one must fulfill all the Mosaic and Levitical laws of the Jewish heritage and religion. A lawyer approaches and posits this question: Of all the commandments God has given, which of them is the greatest commandment? 

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Tuesday, January 16, 2018

3 Key Elements of Spiritual Growth for Authentic Christian Living

 

Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash

In the whirlwind of modern life, many Christians yearn for a deeper, more authentic relationship with God. But how do we nurture that spiritual growth that is so crucial for genuine Christian living? Understanding the key elements of spiritual growth is essential for developing a strong, unwavering faith that can withstand life's trials and tribulations.


By focusing on pivotal aspects such as deepening our love for others, cultivating a hatred for sin, and nurturing a hunger for truth, we can transform our spiritual journey. These elements not only bring us closer to God but also help us live out our faith in tangible, impactful ways. This post will explore these three key elements, providing insights and practical tips to help you grow spiritually and live authentically as a Christian.


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Monday, January 15, 2018

Adversity Strengthens Authentic Latter-day Saint Christian Life [2 Nephi 2:11]

For it must needs be, there is an opposition in all things ~ 2 Nephi 2:11

... it is as necessary that we should have difficulties to contend with, in order to make intelligent provision for our spiritual concerns, as it is that we should have the winter frosts and stormy weather to enable us to make discreet provision for our temporal necessities.

(Benefits of Opposition: Richards, Franklin D. Provo, Utah April 4, 1886).

We live in a fragile and vulnerable world where tragedy can strike without warning, leaving us grappling with overwhelming loss and deep mourning. Many among us struggle with vices that have spiraled out of control, while others feel a crushing sense of isolation, wondering if anyone truly cares. Each person fights their own battles, wrestling with inner demons that leave us questioning, angry, and burdened by seemingly insurmountable challenges. It's easy to feel like we're struggling in silence, with no one to share our pain. As Latter-day Saint Christians, we understand that life's trials are inevitable, yet these very challenges are the crucible through which our faith is strengthened. Though it may seem as if we're alone in our struggles, we can find solace in the belief that each test of our endurance and faith ultimately brings us closer to spiritual growth and understanding. In the darkest moments, our faith can transform our pain into resilience, and our despair into a deeper trust in divine guidance. This perspective doesn't just offer comfort; it empowers us to face life's hardships with renewed courage and conviction, knowing that our trials serve a greater purpose in the divine plan.

Opposition benefits us in profound ways by strengthening our faith and deepening our reliance on Christ. In a fallen world teeming with sin, trials, and temptations, many have unfortunately turned away from the path of righteousness. Yet, for Christians, there remains a peace and hope that others might not fully grasp or appreciate. We should not misconstrue this peace as a promise of an easy life devoid of struggles. On the contrary, opposition and hardships are inevitable. However, the key difference lies in our anchor—our unwavering faith in Christ. When the storms of life hit, even the smallest amount of faith can propel us forward. By turning to Him, we tap into a source of peace and sustaining support that isn't available elsewhere. Jesus' presence provides a fortress, offering strength and guidance through every challenge. It's this profound, sustaining relationship with our Savior that turns opposition into an opportunity for growth and deeper faith. Thus, our struggles become a testament to His enduring love and our unwavering commitment to walking in His grace.

Why does facing adversity seem to play such a crucial role in living an authentic Christian life? According to 2 Nephi 2:11, opposition is essential for growth and understanding. Without challenges, we wouldn't truly appreciate our blessings or develop the spiritual depth needed to follow Christ's teachings more faithfully.

Adversity isn't just an obstacle; it's a divine tool that shapes our character, tests our faith, and draws us closer to God's eternal truths. By examining the trials we face, we can uncover how each hardship has the potential to fortify our spiritual resilience and deepen our commitment to living a Christ-centered life.

Stay with us as we explore how understanding and embracing adversity can transform your spiritual journey, helping you lead a more authentic and fulfilling Latter-day Saint Christian life.

Understanding Adversity in a Christian Context

Adversity is an unavoidable part of life. For Christians, it is not just a random occurrence but a purposeful aspect of spiritual growth. Let's dive into how 2 Nephi 2:11 helps us understand this concept better.

Biblical Foundation: 2 Nephi 2:11

The scripture 2 Nephi 2:11 from the Book of Mormon states, "For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my firstborn in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad." This verse highlights the necessity of opposition in our lives. The context is that Lehi, a prophet, is teaching his son about the need for balance and opposition. Lehi explains that without opposition, there would be no purpose or meaning to life.

This verse serves as a bedrock for understanding adversity because it tells us that trials are not random punishments but essential components of a bigger divine plan. Adversity allows us to experience joy because, without suffering, we wouldn't understand what joy truly is. It's this constant balance that drives our spiritual growth and keeps us grounded in faith.

The Role of Opposition and Trials

Considering 2 Nephi 2:11, the role of opposition becomes clearer. Opposition and trials are essential for several reasons:

  • Spiritual Growth: Overcoming challenges helps us grow spiritually. When we're pushed to our limits, we discover strengths and abilities we didn't know we had. This strengthens our relationship with God.

  • Strengthening Faith: Trials test our faith, but they also fortify it. When we face adversity, we're often driven to rely more on our faith, which can result in a deeper relationship with God.

  • Appreciating Blessings: Without hardship, we wouldn't appreciate the good times. It's through adversity that we learn to value and cherish our blessings.

  • Developing Compassion: Personal trials make us empathetic toward others who are suffering. This compassion drives us to act in ways that align with Christian teachings.

So, how do we see these roles playing out in everyday life? Think of adversity as a refining fire. Just as gold is purified through intense heat, our souls are purified through trials. Each hardship we face can burn away the impurities of doubt, fear, and selfishness, leaving us with a stronger, purer faith.

Adversity is not just something to endure; it's a divine tool that shapes us into who we are meant to be. By embracing these trials with faith and understanding, we can navigate life's challenges with a grace that reflects our commitment to living a Christ-centered life.

How Adversity Shapes Our Authentic Christian Life

Adversity plays a pivotal role in shaping an authentic Christian life. It stretches us, molds us, and pushes us closer to God. Understanding how adversity can be a divine tool helps us embrace life's challenges with grace and faith.

Deepening Faith and Trust in God

Adversity often forces Christians to rely more deeply on their faith and trust in God. When life throws curveballs, it's natural to seek solace and answers from a higher power. This quest strengthens our spiritual foundation.

Imagine facing a storm. The winds howl, and the rain pours down, but you stand firm, clutching an umbrella of faith. The storm may shake you, but it also strengthens your grip. In moments of hardship, we pray more fervently, read scriptures more deeply, and feel God's presence more keenly. It's like a spiritual boot camp that builds our endurance and trust.

Adversity becomes the training ground where our faith muscles grow stronger. We learn to trust that God has a plan, even when we can't see it. This unwavering faith is the bedrock of an authentic Christian life.

Building Resilience and Character

Facing and overcoming hardships builds resilience and shapes a stronger, more Christ-like character. Just as muscles grow through resistance, our spiritual and emotional strength grows through adversity.

Think of adversity as life’s gym. Each challenge is a weight we must lift. At first, it feels heavy, maybe even impossible. But over time, with each repetition, we build resilience. We become stronger, more patient, and more compassionate, embodying the qualities Christ exemplified.

  • Perseverance: Overcoming obstacles teaches us to persevere. Just as Jesus endured suffering, we learn to keep going, even when it's tough.

  • Empathy: Experiencing our own struggles makes us more empathetic towards others. We are better able to offer support and understanding to those in need.

  • Humility: Adversity reminds us of our limitations and the need for God's strength and guidance.

Resilience isn't just about bouncing back; it's about bouncing forward with new strength and character, more closely aligned with Christ's teachings.

Promoting Humility and Dependence on God

Adversity has a unique way of humbling us. When we face trials that we can't handle on our own, it becomes clear how much we need God. This recognition drives us to depend more fully on His guidance and support.

Humility is like a rare gem that shines brightest under pressure. When life's pressures mount, we're often brought to our knees, literally and figuratively. It's in these moments of humility that we surrender our illusions of control and lean into God's infinite wisdom and strength.

Adversity promotes humility by stripping away our pride and self-reliance. It teaches us to pray with sincerity, recognizing our need for divine intervention. This dependence is not a sign of weakness but of profound spiritual maturity.

  • Acknowledging Limitations: Accepting that we can't do it all on our own fosters a deeper reliance on God.

  • Seeking God's Will: Adversity often clarifies our priorities, aligning them more closely with God's will for our lives.

  • Gratitude: Recognizing our dependence on God enhances our gratitude for His guidance and blessings.

In essence, adversity can be a powerful catalyst that deepens our faith, builds our character, and humbles us, drawing us closer to God. By embracing these trials and allowing them to shape us, we live a more authentic and fulfilling Christian life.

Practical Applications of Adversity in Christian Life

Adversity isn't just an abstract concept; it's something we face daily and must learn to navigate as Christians. By applying specific practices to our lives, we can transform adversity into a source of strength and spiritual growth.

Prayer and Meditation

Prayer and meditation are vital tools for seeking God's strength and wisdom during tough times. When adversity strikes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and lost. However, consistent prayer helps realign our focus and rejuvenates our spirit.

  • Daily Prayer Time: Setting aside dedicated time each day for prayer can anchor your day and give you the spiritual ammunition to face challenges. Think of it as your "soul workout" — just as your body benefits from regular exercise, your spirit thrives on regular communion with God.

  • Meditative Prayer: This isn't just about asking for help but about listening and reflecting. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and simply be present with God. Let His peace wash over you. This practice helps you gain clarity and find a sense of calm amid chaos.

  • Scripted Prayers: Sometimes, words fail us, especially during intense adversities. Using scripted prayers or Psalms can provide the language to articulate your struggles and seek God's intervention.

By incorporating these prayer techniques, you'll find it easier to navigate life's storms with a heart full of faith and a mind focused on His promises.

Community Support and Fellowship

Adversity often feels isolating, but it's essential to remember we're not alone. God created us for community, and seeking support from fellow Christians can make a world of difference.

  • Join a Small Group: Small groups or Bible study classes provide a safe space to share your struggles and gain perspective from others who may have faced similar challenges. It's like having a spiritual support network.

  • Church Involvement: Regular participation in church services and events can be incredibly uplifting. Worshiping together, sharing testimonies, and participating in communal prayer strengthens your spiritual resolve.

  • Accountability Partners: An accountability partner or prayer buddy can keep you grounded. They can offer guidance, pray for you, and provide a listening ear when you need it most.

Fellowship isn't just social interaction; it's about building a support system imbued with God’s love, making it easier to face and overcome trials.

Scripture Study and Reflection

God's word is a treasure trove of wisdom and encouragement, especially during times of adversity. Regular scripture study can provide the spiritual fuel you need to stay strong.

  • Daily Devotionals: Start your day with a devotional. It doesn’t have to be long; even a few verses can offer profound insights and serve as a spiritual compass for your day.

  • Thematic Studies: Focus on scriptures that deal specifically with overcoming adversity, such as Psalms, the book of Job, or Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels. These passages often hold key lessons on resilience and faith.

  • Journaling: Write down the verses that resonate with you and reflect on how they apply to your current struggles. Journaling helps internalize God’s word and see its practical applications in your life.

  • Scripture Memorization: Memorize verses that offer strength and comfort. Having these scriptures at your fingertips can be incredibly reassuring when you face unexpected challenges.

By making scripture study a regular practice, you'll equip yourself with God's wisdom and find it easier to navigate the turbulent waters of adversity.

Embracing these practical applications can help transform the trials you face into steppingstones of spiritual growth and deeper faith. Adversity, when approached with prayer, community support, and scripture study, becomes a powerful catalyst for living an authentic Christian life.

Testimonies of Overcoming Adversity

Throughout history, both biblical and modern, countless stories exist of individuals who have faced significant adversity and emerged with a stronger, more authentic faith. These testimonies serve as powerful reminders that hardship can indeed draw us closer to God and fortify our spiritual resilience.

Biblical Examples

The Bible is filled with accounts of individuals who confronted immense challenges yet demonstrated unwavering faith. Here are some noteworthy examples:

Job

  • Adversity: Job faced unimaginable suffering. He lost his wealth, his children, and his health.

  • Faith Response: Despite his anguish, Job famously declared, “Though He slays me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15). Job’s faith did not falter, and in the end, he was blessed with even more than he had before.

  • Lessons: Job’s story teaches us the value of steadfast faith and the belief that God can restore what has been lost.

Joseph

  • Adversity: Betrayed by his brothers, Joseph was sold into slavery and later wrongfully imprisoned.

  • Faith Response: Despite being abandoned and unjustly accused, Joseph never lost his faith. He rose to become the prime minister of Egypt and used his position to save many, including his own family, from famine.

  • Lessons: Joseph’s life shows how God can transform our trials into opportunities for redemption and purpose.

Paul

  • Adversity: Paul faced persecution, imprisonment, and numerous hardships for his faith.

  • Faith Response: Paul wrote many of his epistles while imprisoned, constantly encouraging others to remain faithful. He declared, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

  • Lessons: Paul exemplifies perseverance and the power of faith in spreading God’s message even in dire circumstances.

These biblical testimonies illustrate that faith in God remains a powerful force, even when life’s challenges seem insurmountable.

Modern-Day Testimonies

In our contemporary world, countless Christians continue to face adversity and come out with stronger faith. Here are a few modern-day testimonies that inspire and uplift.

Corrie ten Boom

  • Adversity: Corrie and her family were arrested for helping Jews escape the Holocaust. She endured severe suffering in concentration camps.

  • Faith Response: After surviving the horrors of the concentration camps, Corrie preached forgiveness and hope through Christ. She famously forgave one of her former guards, demonstrating extraordinary grace.

  • Lessons: Corrie’s story underscores the power of forgiveness and the indomitable strength that faith can provide during unimaginable trials.

Joni Eareckson Tada

  • Adversity: Joni became a quadriplegic following a diving accident at the age of 17.

  • Faith Response: Instead of succumbing to despair, Joni turned to God. She founded Joni and Friends, an organization dedicated to advocating for people with disabilities. She’s also a renowned speaker and author who inspires others to find hope in Christ.

  • Lessons: Joni’s life exemplifies how adversity can be a catalyst for profound personal ministry and advocacy, demonstrating that God can use our greatest struggles for His glory.

Jeremy Camp

  • Adversity: Jeremy’s first wife, Melissa, died of cancer shortly after they were married.

  • Faith Response: In his grief, Jeremy turned to music to express his faith and pain. His song “I Still Believe” has touched millions, inspiring many to hold onto their faith amidst life’s darkest moments.

  • Lessons: Jeremy’s journey shows how God can use our deepest pain to spread messages of hope and faith, touching lives worldwide.

These modern testimonies remind us that adversity is not the end. Instead, it can be a profound beginning to a deeper, more authentic relationship with God. Through these stories, we see how facing trials with faith can not only sustain us but also inspire and uplift others.

Conclusion

Adversity transforms us in profound ways, grounding our faith and fortifying our resolve to live a Christ-centered life. 2 Nephi 2:11 teaches us that opposition is essential, not merely as a test but as a divine catalyst for spiritual growth.

The trials we face deepen our faith, build our resilience, and humble us, drawing us closer to God's eternal truths. Adversity is not just an obstacle but an opportunity to develop a more authentic and fulfilling Christian life.

Let each challenge you encounter be a steppingstone towards spiritual maturity and a deeper relationship with God. Embrace adversity, knowing that it is shaping you into who you are meant to be in Christ.

Sunday, January 14, 2018

Let Us Nourish and Fortify Our Faith in these Last Days


 To strengthen our testimonies and protect ourselves from error, we must constantly nourish and fortify our faith We are in a unique time period of human mortality. The days seem to be growing shorter and shorter. Hearts of men are beginning to fail. News reports are full of human tragedies and events that leave us questioning human nature and human compassion. Some are even proclaiming that we are now in the end of days where scoffers are becoming more prominent in the marketplace. Any form of religious conviction, or a symbol of religious identity is being tarnished and condemned.

The ideas of men, the philosophy of the world, and the wisdom of self-identity is becoming more and more prominent in the thoughts and hearts of each person. Selfish desires and attainment are more popular than selfless acts of service and love. To say the least, we are at war with the wisdom and philosophy of men. In this war, sides are being chosen. Where one decides to stand is where one’s allegiance and devotion will prevail and direct their paths.

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Monday, January 1, 2018

A Life of Passion, Meaning, and Purpose: A Sacred Perspective

 

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

How does one create a life full of passion, meaning, and purpose? Countless books, articles, and studies claim to provide answers, yet many seekers come away unsatisfied. Why? Despite humanity’s relentless search for truth, authentic joy and purpose often seem elusive. Layered with competing ideologies, religious debates, and political divisions, the quest for authenticity and conscious living becomes even more complex.

As a society, we hunger for deeper connections and purpose, but we often look in the wrong places—political affiliations, social movements, or material success. These distractions pull us away from the eternal truths that truly satisfy. The result? We grasp but never achieve the fulfillment our souls crave. Authentic living cannot be achieved by skimming the surface of life but requires delving into its sacred depths.

The Scriptural Foundation of Authentic Living

In 365 Daily Inspirations for Creating a Life of Passion and Purpose, Gay Hendricks offers ten principles for conscious living. While these ideas may inspire personal growth, we must anchor them in a higher spiritual framework. True authenticity is found not just in self-awareness but in aligning our lives with eternal truths and divine purpose.

From a Latter-day Saint perspective, this alignment begins with understanding God’s plan of happiness (2 Nephi 2:25) and living according to His commandments (John 14:15). As we examine each of Hendricks’s premises, we can explore their spiritual significance, ultimately leading to a more meaningful, Christ-centered life.


Guided Premise One: Authenticity is Essential

Hendricks emphasizes that a truthful life is both the means and the end of the journey. The Savior Himself taught this principle: “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Authenticity requires us to live in harmony with God’s will, which leads to true freedom and joy.

Reflection:

  • How authentic am I in my relationship with God and others?
  • In what ways can I align my daily actions more fully with gospel principles?

Personal Takeaway:

Authenticity begins with knowing our divine identity as children of God (Romans 8:16) and living with integrity to that knowledge.


Guided Premise Two: Prioritize Unity Over Division

Hendricks argues for focusing on what unites us rather than divides us. The Savior’s prayer, “That they all may be one” (John 17:21), teaches us that unity is not just a noble goal but a divine mandate. Contention, whether political or ideological, is contrary to the Spirit (3 Nephi 11:29).

Reflection:

  • How can I promote unity in my family, church, and community?
  • Are my personal beliefs contributing to contention or peace?

Personal Takeaway:

Unity does not mean uniformity. It means recognizing the divine worth in others and seeking common ground through Christ.


Guided Premise Three: Set Spiritually Meaningful Goals

Conscious living involves pursuing goals that bring vitality and meaning. The Apostle Paul declared, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Setting spiritually focused goals aligns our actions with God’s purposes.

Reflection:

  • Are my goals leading me closer to Christ?
  • Do I allow space for the Spirit to guide my ambitions?

Personal Takeaway:

When we align our goals with eternal truths, we experience deeper joy and fulfillment.


Guided Premise Four: Take Responsibility

Hendricks calls for full accountability, echoing the Lord’s words, “I, the Lord God, make you free, therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free” (D&C 98:8). Avoiding responsibility limits spiritual growth and delays our progression.

Reflection:

  • What aspects of my life require greater accountability?
  • How does taking responsibility strengthen my relationship with God?

Personal Takeaway:

True freedom comes from taking responsibility for our actions, repenting when needed, and trusting in Christ’s enabling power.


Guided Premise Five: Let Go of Control

Hendricks reminds us of the futility of controlling others or the uncontrollable. The Savior taught, “Take no thought for the morrow… Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof” (Matthew 6:34). Trusting God’s will allow us to release unnecessary burdens.

Reflection:

  • What am I holding onto that I need to release to the Lord?
  • How can I increase my trust in God’s plan for me?

Personal Takeaway:

Peace comes when we let go of what we cannot control and place our trust in God’s hands.


Guided Premise Six: Embrace Reality

Spiritual growth requires us to confront, not avoid, reality. The Savior’s Atonement is evidence that God does not shy away from pain but transforms it into redemption. As we face life’s challenges, we can echo Paul’s words, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).

Reflection:

  • Am I avoiding difficult truths in my life?
  • How can I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth?

Personal Takeaway:

Acknowledging reality allows us to grow in faith, humility, and reliance on God.


The Sacred Questions

As we consider Hendricks’s premises through a spiritual lens, three guiding questions emerge:

  1. Who am I? (I am a child of God, with divine potential.)
  2. What is my purpose? (To follow Christ, serve others, and build His kingdom.)
  3. How may I be of service? (By seeking to love as Christ loves and ministering to those in need.)

These questions invite us to explore our divine identity and mission. Pondering them prayerfully can lead to profound spiritual insights.


A Call to Sacred Living

True authenticity and conscious living are not merely about personal growth but about anchoring ourselves in Christ, the ultimate source of truth and light. The scriptures remind us: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). As we align our lives with Him, we find the passion, meaning, and purpose that elude the world.

Final Reflection:

  • How does my life reflect my faith in Christ?
  • What steps can I take to live more authentically as a disciple of Jesus Christ?

Call to Action:

Take time this week to meditate on the three guiding questions. Record your thoughts, and seek the Spirit’s guidance in making meaningful changes in your life. Through Christ, you can build a life filled with passion, meaning, and divine purpose.

Stand a little taller in recovery

 Growing up as a Latter-day Saint Christian, one of my favorite hymns was Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel. It wasn’t a typical hymn of worship, but it resonated with me deeply, shaping my understanding of perseverance and purpose in life. This hymn was written during the migration of the Mormon pioneers and reflects the determination of those early saints as they pushed their heavy, wheeled carts along difficult trails. The imagery of their physical labor became a metaphor for spiritual and personal resilience.


In recovery, we often encounter similar struggles. Each individual has their own work to do—work that cannot be avoided or delegated. The hymn's third stanza captures this principle perfectly:

Then don’t stand idly looking on;
The fight with sin is real.
It will be long but must go on;
Put your shoulder to the wheel.

The word sin here is worth unpacking. In Hebrew, one of the words translated as sin is chata (khaw-taw), which means "to miss the mark" or "to go astray." In recovery, the fight against "missing the mark" is very real. Substance use disorder presents countless opportunities to stray, and the road to sobriety often feels long and exhausting. But serenity and healing can only be achieved by continuing the journey, step by step, with determination. This is where the principle of “putting your shoulder to the wheel” becomes not just a hymn lyric but a personal mantra.

This idea is further illustrated in Aesop’s fable, Hercules and the Wagoner. The story tells of a wagoner whose cart became stuck in the mud. Frustrated and defeated, he threw down his whip, knelt in the mire, and prayed to Hercules for help. Hercules, however, appeared and admonished him:


"Tut, man, don’t sprawl there. Get up and put your shoulder to the wheel."

taylor-0031-clown-praying-to-hercules

The moral of the fable is clear: while divine strength may be available to us, we are also called to exert our own efforts. The wagoner had to use his own strength to lift his cart out of the mud—a lesson in the value of action and personal responsibility.

In recovery, this principle is invaluable. Recovery demands effort. It asks us to roll up our sleeves, dig deep, and commit to the hard work of change. It means pushing forward even when the weight of our past, our shame, or our struggles feels overwhelming. When we “put our shoulder to the wheel,” we engage not just with the process of recovery but with the transformative work of rebuilding our lives.

Now is the time to rise. The time to lift our eyes from the past and resist the temptation to dwell on what is unknown or uncontrollable in the future. This is the season to commit—to squarely place your shoulder to the wheel of your own life and push with purpose toward freedom and sobriety.

The Time is Now to Do What is Right in Recovery

As the new year begins, let this be the season where you make a radical commitment to your recovery. Stand a little taller, focus on the present, and take one courageous step at a time. Leave behind the fear of what has or hasn’t happened and instead embrace the now. Recovery is about doing what is right, regardless of the challenges or consequences, and trusting that your efforts will bear fruit.

When you submit your life and your will to a Higher Power—as you understand it—you’ll find the strength to push forward. In those moments of surrender, remember these words:

Then work and watch and fight and pray
With all your might and zeal.
Push ev’ry worthy work along;
Put your shoulder to the wheel.

(Chorus)
Put your shoulder to the wheel; push along,
Do your duty with a heart full of song.
We all have work; let no one shirk.
Put your shoulder to the wheel.

Today’s Thoughtful Meditation:
Recovery takes work, courage, and commitment. It requires strength and effort. Today, I resolve to put my shoulder to the wheel of my recovery, to stand a little taller, and to move forward—one determined step at a time.