Overcoming addiction to alcohol and drugs may prove challenging, but it is easier when you have a support system. The Christian 12-Steps Program formulated by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an ideal support system that involves a multi-pronged approach to addiction treatment.
One of the 12-Step Program’s most notable aspects is that it references the Christian faith virtually throughout the 12 steps. That is not a mistake, as explained in this article.
Christianity in the 12-Step Program
Christianity in the 12-Step Program emphasizes sourcing support from a higher power (God and the Christ) to get the energy needed to overcome the urge to abuse alcohol and other drugs.
Here is an overview of each step and how it related to the Christian faith:
1. We admitted we were powerless over our addictions and compulsive behaviors, and that our lives had become unmanageable
The urge to abuse alcohol and drugs overpowers the commonsense. The body is depicted as being powerless over its desire to engage in sin, which is just as destructive as addiction. This is relatable to Romans 7:18, which references the body’s powerlessness over sin, despite the spirit’s desire not so sin.
2. We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity
Many addicts without a background in Christianity have often turned to prayer when everything else faith. This is because there is a lingering belief that they can overcome addiction if they have help and support from a power greater than themselves – a power like God. This step is relatable to Philippians 2:13, which states that God can strengthen a person’s will to do good.
3. We made a decision to turn our will and lives over to the care of God
Many addicts will do anything to overcome addiction following numerous failed attempts to do so themselves. God is an ideal option, as He can grant them the power and will to change their lives, as stated in Romans 12:1.
4. We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves
Lamentations 3:40 states, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.” Similarly, the fourth step urges addicts to make a personal moral and spiritual inventory. The idea is to get them to consider their past mistakes and use them as an inspiration to turn their lives around.
5. We admitted to God, ourselves, and others the exact nature of our wrongs
This step is somewhat similar to the age-old adage that confessing and speaking the truth will free your conscience. It is also relatable with James 5:16, which says, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
6. We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character
Overcoming addiction is so challenging that it feels impossible. Wouldn’t it be easier if you could let someone else do it for you? This step is relatable to James 4:10, which says, “Humble yourselves before the LORD, and he will lift you up.”
7. We humbly asked Him to remove all our shortcomings
God is always willing to turn people into better versions of themselves, and He urges people to ask for His help. This step is relatable to 1 John 1:9, which essentially says that God will forgive people their sins if they confess.
8. We made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all
Addiction destroys the addict’s personal and social relationships, and it is usually the addict’s fault. Recovery is difficult when you are carrying this guilt around, and it would be a relief if your social life was restored. This is why scripture urges people to be good to others so that the goodness may be reciprocated, as stated in Luke 6:31.
9. We made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others
This step is the actualization of step eight. It is relatable to Matthew 5:23-24, which insists or mending broken relationships before approaching the LORD for penance.
10. We continued to take personal inventory and promptly admitted when we were wrong
Many recovering addicts are at risk of relapsing back to their bad habits. This is why it is important to be conscious about what you do, as directed in this step. Similarly, 1 Corinthians 10:12 urges believers to stand firm in their faith lest they sin.
11. Through prayer and meditation, we sought to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry that out
Prayer in the faith-based recovery process is like a continuous support system. To this end, it is prudent to maintain a close and positive relationship with God, as urged in Colossians 3:16.
12. Having had a spiritual experience as a result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others and practice these principles in all our affairs
Alcoholics Anonymous was founded on the concept that support from other people is essential for recovery. Fellow addicts willing to overcome their addictions make the best support group. To this end, former addicts can assist recovering addicts by sharing their experiences, just like Galatians 6:1 urges Christians to spread the gospel.
Christian 12-Step Program in Orange County, California
God is usually the last resort for most people when they are at their lowest. Addiction is one of the lowest points in anyone’s life, and overcoming it often necessitates some help. Fortunately, God is always able and willing to help, and faith in Him can give you the strength needed to recover, stay sober, and become an overall better person.
A Christian-based rehab center incorporates the Christian faith into the 12-Step Program. Covenant Hills Treatment is the leading Christian-based rehab center in Orange County, CA. The staff here comprises professionals who believe in the Christian faith.
However, Covenant Hills Treatment also has a non-faith-based addiction treatment program. Get in touch to learn more about our services.
