The Bible on Recovery

As I celebrate 12 years in recovery from alcoholism, I am reflective on God’s messages to all of us in recovery through His Word (the Bible) and how I can apply them today, since I write Biblical based contemporary novels. I’ve often wondered why God put wine (and other alcoholic substances) on the earth when some of us are what we call “allergic”. On the other hand, the world is full of temptations and things that aren’t good for some of us. (Some can’t have sweets, for example). Why are some of us tested and not others we might ask? Yet, after giving this some thought, I believe that those who find themselves working a 12-step program are actually quite fortunate, since it is a great, spiritual way to live and grow, get closer to God and become our best selves. It’s like turning the crosses we bear into victories.  St. Paul speaks especially to those with problems with alcohol:   “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:15-18) And Jesus encourages us to share our message of recovery and help others: “Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’…So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit…Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen…” (John 3:7-18). And to live one day at a time: “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matt 6:34). We know that God (and His messages in the Bible) are an integral part of the 12-step program. And for me, that’s enough to keep me coming back and working my program, and to keep me grateful.