This pattern clearly shows the depth our obsessions. We can’t stop what we’re doing even to save relationships, health or finances. In fact, our behaviors confuse us; it baffles us that we actually keep doing what we know is wrong.
That is the essence of powerlessness over our behaviors.
This puzzle proves just how out-of-control our lives can get. Whether it is something like a chemical addiction, relational dependency, gossip, or overindulgence in social media, we know “trigger situations” will tempt our choices. Still, we continue to be exposed to those situations and we fall over and over again. Our mind rationalizes the contradictions and drives us back to the actions that give momentary pleasure, but endless pain.
Changing our pattern is possible and the first step is just accepting and acknowledging that we are powerless. That’s all we have to do to get started. God will lead us through the rest.
—————————— Spiritual Connection ——————————
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. Romans 7:15
God, this verse helps me realize how I am not the only one who continues to do the things I hate. In Jesus’ name please give me the conviction to break out of those patterns and claim victory over every problem in my life. Amen.
—————————— Thinking It Through ——————————
- What things do you continue to do that you really hate? Be specific.
- What is satisfying about your compulsions?
- For each item in your list from Question 1, identify a reason you originally got satisfaction from it.
- For each item in the list, identify why you now hate it.
- Consider how acknowledging that you are powerless over these behaviors helps!
—————————— Sing About It ——————————