Scripture:
Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Mark 14:38
Lesson:
The best way to prevent relapse can be summarized in the acrostic RELAPSE below:
R – Reserve a Daily Quiet Time
Reserve a daily time with God for self-examination, Bible reading, and prayer in order to know God and HIs will for my life and gain the power to follow His will.
E – Evaluate
Evaluate your physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health. Try doing a HEART Check:
Am I…. Hurting?
Exhausted?
Angry?
Resentful?
Tense?
L – Listen to Jesus
We need to take a time-out from life long enough to listen to our bodies, minds, and souls. We need to slow down to hear the Lord’s directions.
A – Alone and Quiet Time
Just as Jesus spent time alone with His Father, we need to do the same. Set a daily appointment with God. Listen carefully and learn how to hear God!
P – Plug into God’s Power through Prayer
Be specific in your prayer requests; pray about everything, asking for God’s perfect will.
S – Slow Down Long Enough to Hear God’s Answer
We want our prayers answered now, so we become impatient! Our timing is flawed, while God’s timing is perfect!
E – Enjoy Your Growth
Rejoice and celebrate your victories along your road to recovery, no matter how big or small they are! Remember, you are on a journey. Your growth will give others hope!
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for today. Thank You for giving me the tools to work my program and live my life differently, centered in Your will. Lord, help me to make my amends promptly and ask for forgiveness. In all my relationships today, help me to do my part in making them healthy and growing. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
*Vital Men Open Share Group will be starting soon! Time/place is yet to be determined.
