Scripture: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 4:17
Lesson: Denial can rear its ugly head and return at any time! You may trade addictions, begin new compulsive behaviors, or be on the road to relapse without even knowing it. By removing your mask of denial, you can take your recovery to the next level. Even if you feel that you haven’t actively stepped back into denial, it is something you must be on guard against.
D: Disrupts our progress in our recoveries
Hiding our feelings and returning to denial freezes our recovery and binds our progress.
E: Enables old hurts, habits, and hang-ups to return
It is only in the present that positive change can occur. When old hurts, habits, and hang-ups return, we are not able to live and enjoy the life God has for us in the present.Lost Anxiety causes us to waste precious energy running from our past and worrying about and dreading the future.
N: Negatively affects the repair work we have done on our relationships
We can start to isolate from those that are close to us. This can destroy the trust and fellowship we have been given.
I: Interrupts our daily walk with God
The further we are into our denial, the harder it is for us to remain close to God. God’s light shines on the truth.
A: Allows risk of possible relapse
The further away we get from God and others, the more likely the chances are that we will relapse.
L: Loss of valuable time
The longer we keep our denial hidden, the more time we are wasting that could be spent on continuing to grow.Denial doesn’t protect us from our pain; it allows our pain to grow and turn into shame and guilt.
Application:
Denial can sneak up on us when we let our guard down. To stay alert and self-aware, I practice journaling and asking God to reveal areas where denial might be hiding. Time and again, He places something specific on my heart that needs honest attention. When we consistently stay close to God and commit to personal growth, we become more discerning and far less susceptible to falling back into denial.
Take a moment to reflect: As you sit with God this week, what is He gently placing on your heart that you’ve been putting off or ignoring?
*Vital Women Open Share Group meets every Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 pm in the City Park Building in New Sharon! Hope to see you there!
