“Perhaps there is a better way—we think so. For we are now on a different basis of trusting and relying upon God. We trust infinite God rather than our finite selves.”
-Alcoholics Anonymous p. 68
I was teaching a lesson about test-taking skills and was talking about how students should trust their instincts with multiple choice questions. Their first instinctive answer is usually the correct one. The same is true when we fear we are in danger. Our instincts tell us this is a dangerous person or situation.
But how often do we not listen to our instincts? Instead of going with our first answer, we doubt ourselves and write down our second choice, which ends up being wrong. Or, when we feel that a situation is dangerous but go ahead into it, knowing that we are not following our gut. We so often do not follow our instincts and end up paying the price.
Our instincts have probably warned us about our disease as well. Whether we are the drinker or the person who loves an alcoholic, we know that the drinking is causing a problem, but we deny this instinct and make up other reasons for our trouble. Our failure to listen to that inner voice can stop us from receiving the help we need. Or, when we do decide to go to a meeting, we listen and hear that the Twelve Steps of recovery will work, and deep down we know this is true, but we once again ignore this instinct that could save our lives—and nothing changes.
Today is a new day. I will listen to my instincts today and really seek recovery in my program.
Today’s Prayer
God, I am afraid of following my instincts. I don’t trust you, and I certainly don’t trust myself. Please help me move forward in my program.