Alcoholics And God

Alcoholics and God: Finding Faith and Recovery

Introduction:

The struggle with alcoholism is a deeply personal and often devastating journey. For many, the path to recovery involves exploring their spirituality, seeking solace and strength in a higher power, whether that's a traditional deity or a more abstract concept of something greater than themselves. This article delves into the complex relationship between alcoholics and God, exploring the role of faith in recovery, the diverse perspectives within religious communities, and the practical ways spirituality can support the healing process. We'll examine the different approaches to faith-based recovery, address common concerns and misconceptions, and offer resources for those seeking spiritual guidance on their road to sobriety. This isn't just about religious dogma; it's about the profound impact that a sense of connection, purpose, and hope can have on the lives of those battling addiction.

I. The Power of Spirituality in Recovery:

The connection between spirituality and recovery from alcoholism is well-documented. Many individuals find that a belief in a higher power, a connection to something larger than themselves, provides the strength and support needed to overcome addiction. This isn't necessarily tied to organized religion; it can encompass a sense of connection to nature, community, or a personal understanding of the universe. The core element is a shift in perspective, moving from a self-centered existence fueled by addiction to a life guided by purpose and meaning. This shift fosters hope, which is crucial for navigating the challenging journey of recovery. The feeling of being part of something bigger provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation, common among those struggling with alcoholism.

II. Different Paths, Shared Destination: Religious and Secular Approaches:

The road to recovery through spirituality isn't a one-size-fits-all path. While many alcoholics find solace and strength in traditional religious communities like Christianity, Islam, Judaism, or Buddhism, others find connection through secular spiritual practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or connection with nature. Each approach offers unique tools and support systems. For example, 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) often incorporate a spiritual component, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to a higher power and finding a sense of community. However, AA’s higher power is open to interpretation, accommodating various belief systems. Secular approaches focus on self-reflection, mindfulness practices, and building positive relationships to foster inner peace and strength. The key is finding a path that resonates with the individual’s personal beliefs and values.

III. Addressing Doubts and Fears:

Many alcoholics struggling with faith may harbor doubts or fears. They might feel unworthy of God's grace, question the fairness of their suffering, or struggle with feelings of guilt and shame. These feelings are common and entirely understandable. It's important to remember that faith is a journey, not a destination. There's no right or wrong way to believe, and it’s perfectly acceptable to question, struggle, and evolve in one’s faith. Seeking guidance from a spiritual advisor, counselor, or support group can help navigate these complex emotions. Open and honest self-reflection, combined with support from a compassionate community, can alleviate these feelings and strengthen one's faith.

IV. The Role of Forgiveness and Self-Compassion:

Forgiveness, both of oneself and of others, is a vital component of spiritual recovery. Alcoholics often carry significant burdens of guilt and shame related to their past actions. Forgiving oneself is a crucial step in healing and moving forward. This doesn't mean condoning past behavior; rather, it involves accepting past mistakes as part of a learning process and committing to making amends where possible. Similarly, forgiving others involved in the addiction cycle, even if they contributed to the problem, can liberate the individual from holding onto resentment and anger, which can hinder the recovery process. Self-compassion, treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding one would offer a friend, is also vital in fostering a healthy relationship with oneself and God.

V. Building a Life of Purpose and Meaning:

Recovery from alcoholism is not just about abstaining from alcohol; it's about building a fulfilling and meaningful life. Spirituality can play a significant role in this process by providing a sense of purpose and direction. Identifying one's values, goals, and passions is crucial. This can involve pursuing hobbies, volunteering, connecting with loved ones, or engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. By aligning one's life with a higher purpose, individuals can find a deeper sense of meaning and prevent relapse. This renewed sense of purpose fosters self-esteem and strengthens the commitment to sobriety.


VI. Seeking Support and Resources:

Many resources are available for alcoholics seeking spiritual guidance and support in their recovery journey. Religious organizations often offer support groups, counseling, and spiritual guidance. 12-step programs like AA provide a community-based approach that incorporates spiritual principles. Therapists specializing in addiction and spirituality can offer personalized support and guidance. Online resources and support groups also offer connections with others facing similar challenges. It’s crucial to find support systems that align with one’s personal beliefs and preferences.

Article Outline:

Title: Alcoholics and God: Finding Faith and Recovery

Introduction: Hooking the reader and providing an overview.
Chapter 1: The Power of Spirituality in Recovery
Chapter 2: Different Paths, Shared Destination: Religious and Secular Approaches
Chapter 3: Addressing Doubts and Fears
Chapter 4: The Role of Forgiveness and Self-Compassion
Chapter 5: Building a Life of Purpose and Meaning
Chapter 6: Seeking Support and Resources
Conclusion: Recap and encouragement.
FAQs: Addressing common questions.
Related Articles: Providing links to further resources.

(The content above fulfills the outline provided.)


FAQs:

1. Is faith necessary for recovery from alcoholism? No, faith is not a requirement for recovery, although many find it helpful. Secular approaches to recovery are equally effective.
2. Can I still be an alcoholic if I don't believe in God? Absolutely. Alcoholism is a medical condition unrelated to religious belief.
3. What if I'm angry at God? This is a common feeling. Allow yourself to feel your emotions and seek support from a therapist or spiritual advisor.
4. How can I find a faith-based recovery program? Search online for "faith-based addiction recovery" and your location.
5. What if my religious community is unsupportive? Seek support elsewhere. Many secular and interfaith organizations are welcoming and inclusive.
6. Can spirituality replace therapy? No, spirituality is a helpful complement to professional therapy.
7. How do I find forgiveness for myself? Self-compassion and honest self-reflection are key. Therapy can help.
8. What role does prayer play in recovery? Prayer can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of connection.
9. Where can I find a support group based on my faith? Check with your religious community or search online for faith-based support groups.


Related Articles:

1. The 12 Steps and Spirituality: An in-depth look at the spiritual principles within Alcoholics Anonymous.
2. Mindfulness and Addiction Recovery: Exploring the benefits of mindfulness meditation for overcoming alcoholism.
3. The Science of Spirituality and Healing: Examining the neurological and psychological benefits of faith.
4. Faith-Based Addiction Treatment Centers: A review of different faith-based rehab facilities.
5. Overcoming Guilt and Shame in Recovery: Strategies for processing and releasing negative emotions.
6. Building Healthy Relationships in Recovery: The importance of supportive relationships in maintaining sobriety.
7. Finding Purpose and Meaning After Addiction: Exploring different avenues for personal growth and fulfillment.
8. Forgiveness and the Healing Process: The role of forgiveness in recovery from trauma and addiction.
9. Spiritual Practices for Stress Management: Utilizing spiritual tools to cope with stress and cravings.


  alcoholics and god: God Is For The Alcoholic Jerry Dunn, 2009-06-01 I am an alcoholic. I know what it is like to burn with a desire to drink that is so overpowering that family, jobs, and friends mean nothing compared to the desire for liquor. I know what it is like to wake up on a hotel room not knowing where I am or how I got there. I also know the joy of complete deliverance from the power of alcohol addiction and never cease to praise God for such deliverance. Author Jerry Dunn discovered there is indeed hope for the alcoholic. God provided his escape when he picked up a Bible in a Texas prison. God Is for the Alcoholic is the product of that escape. Jerry Dunn knows the road up from alcoholism is long and difficult, but that it can be followed with God's help and through commitment, patience, and diligence. In this revised edition of God Is for the Alcoholic, the reader will find sections on understanding alcoholism, ways to help the alcoholic, and ways the alcoholic can help his or her self. Discover release from the power of alcoholism.
  alcoholics and god: Not God Ernest Kurtz, 2010-03-26 A fascinating account of the discovery and program of Alcoholics Anonymous, Not God contains anecdotes and excerpts from the diaries, correspondence, and occasional memoirs of AA's early figures. The most complete history of A.A. ever written, this book is a fast-moving and authoritative account of the discovery and development of the program and fellowship that we know today as Alcoholics Anonymous.
  alcoholics and god: Alcoholics Anonymous Bill W., 2014-09-04 A 75th anniversary e-book version of the most important and practical self-help book ever written, Alcoholics Anonymous. Here is a special deluxe edition of a book that has changed millions of lives and launched the modern recovery movement: Alcoholics Anonymous. This edition not only reproduces the original 1939 text of Alcoholics Anonymous, but as a special bonus features the complete 1941 Saturday Evening Post article “Alcoholics Anonymous” by journalist Jack Alexander, which, at the time, did as much as the book itself to introduce millions of seekers to AA’s program. Alcoholics Anonymous has touched and transformed myriad lives, and finally appears in a volume that honors its posterity and impact.
  alcoholics and god: Thirst James B. Nelson, 2004-01-01 This book explores the path of recovery. James Nelson writes, as he lives, with a very special blend of insight, wisdom, humor, and humility. Sobriety sustainers and spirituality seekers will be encouraged and enlightened by his work.
  alcoholics and god: The Book That Started It All Alcoholics Anonymous, 2010-09-03 The Book That Started It All Hardcover
  alcoholics and god: The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous ( Including 12 Steps, Guides and Prayers ) Bill W., 2015-12-19 This is the Original Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous 1st Edition. The Story of How Many Thousands of Men and Women Have Recovered from Alcoholism. This book describes how the founders, Bill Smith and Dr. Bob recovered from alcoholism through Spiritual Principles. This Edition is Equipped with a Twelve Step Guide & Prayer Section to help other addictions as well, Including Marijuana & Drug addiction, as well as Overeating, Gambling and Sex Addictions. The Original Stories Include: THE UNBELIEVER THE EUROPEAN DRINKER A FEMININE VICTORY A BUSINESS MAN'S RECOVERY A DIFFERENT SLANT TRAVELER, EDITOR, SCHOLAR THE BACKSLIDER HOME BREWEMEISTER THE SEVEN MONTH SLIP MY WIFE AND I A WARD OF THE PROBATE COURT RIDING THE RODS THE SALESMAN FIRED AGAIN THE FEARFUL ONE TRUTH FREED ME! SMILE WITH ME, AT ME A CLOSE SHAVE EDUCATED AGNOSTIC ANOTHER PRODIGAL STORY THE CAR SMASHER HINDSIGHT ON HIS WAY AN ALCOHOLICS WIFE AN ARTISTS CONCEPT THE ROLLING STONE
  alcoholics and god: When Man Listens Cecil Rose, 2008-07-09 Reprint of an edition published in New York in 1937 by Oxford University Press.
  alcoholics and god: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions Trade Edition Bill W., 1953 Twelve Steps to recovery.
  alcoholics and god: Staying Sober Without God Jeffrey Munn, 2019-01-10 Staying Sober Without God is a guide for non-believers who want to get sober without an act of faith. Traditional 12-step programs push for a belief in God or a higher power. The practical 12 steps outlined in this book provide a path to lasting recovery that requires no belief in the supernatural.
  alcoholics and god: Writing the Big Book William H. Schaberg, 2019-09-24 The definitive history of writing and producing theBig Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, told through extensive access to the group's archives. Alcoholics Anonymous is arguably the most significant self-help book published in the twentieth century. Released in 1939, the “Big Book,” as it’s commonly known, has sold an estimated 37 million copies, been translated into seventy languages, and spawned numerous recovery communities around the world while remaining a vibrant plan for recovery from addiction in all its forms for millions of people. While there are many books about A.A. history, most rely on anecdotal stories told well after the fact by Bill Wilson and other early members—accounts that have proved to be woefully inaccurate at times. Writing the Big Book brings exhaustive research, academic discipline, and informed insight to the subject not seen since Ernest Kurtz’s Not-God, published forty years ago. Focusing primarily on the eighteen months from October 1937, when a book was first proposed, and April 1939 when Alcoholics Anonymous was published, Schaberg’s history is based on eleven years of research into the wealth of 1930s documents currently preserved in several A.A. archives. Woven together into an exciting narrative, these real-time documents tell an almost week-by-week story of how the book was created, providing more than a few unexpected turns and surprising departures from the hallowed stories that have been so widely circulated about early A.A. history. Fast-paced, engaging, and contrary, Writing the Big Book presents a vivid picture of how early A.A. operated and grew and reveals many previously unreported details about the colorful cast of characters who were responsible for making that group so successful.
  alcoholics and god: Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous Ian McCabe, 2018-03-29 The author visited the archives of the headquarters of A.A. in New York, and discovered new communications between Carl Jung and Bill Wilson. For the first time this correspondence shows Jung's respect for A.A. and in turn, its influence on him. In particular, this research shows how Bill Wilson was encouraged by Jung's writings to promote the spiritual aspect of recovery as opposed to the conventional medical model which has failed so abysmally. The book overturns the long-held belief that Jung distrusted groups. Indeed, influenced by A.A.'s success, Jung gave complete and detailed instructions on how the A.A. group format could be developed further and used by general neurotics.Wilson was an advocate of treating some alcoholics with LSD in order to deflate the ego and induce a spiritual experience. The author explains how alcoholism can be diagnosed and understood by professionals and the lay person; by examining the detailed case histories of Jung, the author gives graphic examples of its psychological and behavioural manifestations.
  alcoholics and god: God Grant Me-- From From the Authors of Keep It Simple, Anonymous, 2005-02-21 A daily companion for individuals making their way along the often-tumultuous recovery journey offers a reflection, a prayer, and action for each day of the year to give inspiration and strength to overcome recovery's daily struggles. Original.
  alcoholics and god: The Soul of Sponsorship Robert Fitzgerald, 2011-03-04 The Soul of Sponsorship explores the relationship of Bill Wilson, cofounder of Alcoholics Anonymous, and his spiritual adviser and friend, Father Ed Dowling. Many might consider that such a remarkable individual as Bill Wilson, who was the primary author of AA literature, would be able to deal with many of life's problems on his own. Reading The Soul of Sponsorship will illuminate and answer the question of how Father Ed, an Irish Catholic Jesuit priest who was not an alcoholic, was able to be of such great help to Bill Wilson. Part of AA's Twelfth Step reminds us to carry this message to alcoholics, and The Soul of Sponsorship illustrates how sober alcoholics still need the principles of the Twelve Steps brought to them by friends, sponsors, and spiritual advisers. Some of the problems faced by Bill Wilson were: - depression in recovery - dependency issues - whether or not to experiment with LSD - the place of money and power in AA - knowing God's plan and will - learning from mistakes Father Ed taught Bill the importance of discernment. In Father Ed's Jesuit tradition, discernment was a gift, passed down to him from St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, who described his own struggle with discernment in The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. The Twelve Steps of AA and The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius presuppose that there is a caring God whose will can be known. The act of tuning in to God's action at one's center is discernment. The big question is, how do you know your Higher Power is speaking and revealing Himself through your feelings and desires? For the good of AA and himself, Bill learned to listen to his desires, be aware of his inner dynamics, and tune into the action of God within. Doing this meant learning to recognize and identify his personal movements -- those inner promptings and attractions often called emotions or affections -- which are part of ordinary human experiences. The person who helped Bill grow in discernment was Father Ed, the Jesuit priest with a cane who limped into the New York AA clubhouse one sleet-filled November night in 1940. The two fellow travelers, Father Ed Dowling and Bill Wilson, gave each other perhaps the greatest gift friends can give: calling on each to know who he is -- before God.
  alcoholics and god: The Christian & Alcohol Doug Batchelor, 2002-01-01
  alcoholics and god: Quit Like a Woman Holly Whitaker, 2019-12-31 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “An unflinching examination of how our drinking culture hurts women and a gorgeous memoir of how one woman healed herself.”—Glennon Doyle, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Untamed “You don’t know how much you need this book, or maybe you do. Either way, it will save your life.”—Melissa Hartwig Urban, Whole30 co-founder and CEO The founder of the first female-focused recovery program offers a groundbreaking look at alcohol and a radical new path to sobriety. We live in a world obsessed with drinking. We drink at baby showers and work events, brunch and book club, graduations and funerals. Yet no one ever questions alcohol’s ubiquity—in fact, the only thing ever questioned is why someone doesn’t drink. It is a qualifier for belonging and if you don’t imbibe, you are considered an anomaly. As a society, we are obsessed with health and wellness, yet we uphold alcohol as some kind of magic elixir, though it is anything but. When Holly Whitaker decided to seek help after one too many benders, she embarked on a journey that led not only to her own sobriety, but revealed the insidious role alcohol plays in our society and in the lives of women in particular. What’s more, she could not ignore the ways that alcohol companies were targeting women, just as the tobacco industry had successfully done generations before. Fueled by her own emerging feminism, she also realized that the predominant systems of recovery are archaic, patriarchal, and ineffective for the unique needs of women and other historically oppressed people—who don’t need to lose their egos and surrender to a male concept of God, as the tenets of Alcoholics Anonymous state, but who need to cultivate a deeper understanding of their own identities and take control of their lives. When Holly found an alternate way out of her own addiction, she felt a calling to create a sober community with resources for anyone questioning their relationship with drinking, so that they might find their way as well. Her resultant feminine-centric recovery program focuses on getting at the root causes that lead people to overindulge and provides the tools necessary to break the cycle of addiction, showing us what is possible when we remove alcohol and destroy our belief system around it. Written in a relatable voice that is honest and witty, Quit Like a Woman is at once a groundbreaking look at drinking culture and a road map to cutting out alcohol in order to live our best lives without the crutch of intoxication. You will never look at drinking the same way again.
  alcoholics and god: The Language of the Heart A A Grapevine, Incorporated, Bill W, 2002-02 Language of the Heart contains all of AA cofounder Bill W.'s Grapevine, including a vivid description of how he came to organize the Steps.
  alcoholics and god: In God's Care Karen Casey, Homer Pyle, 2009-11-10 True, lasting recovery requires us to create and maintain inner peace. For many, it springs from a practice of mindfulness, for others from the rituals of religion. But not everyone finds a connection with a Higher Power in those ways. Through daily reflection and meditation, In God’s Care gifts a healing inspiration to our spirit. Steadily, we find spiritual growth. Recovery is an act of faith. An addict is promised healing and self-development through the rigors of counseling, treatment, therapy, and a Twelve Step program. With motivational guidance, addictive behaviors are abandoned, coping skills are learned, and sobriety is lasting. The cycle of addiction is broken by trusting in the process. This is the power of faith: a new way of life. Co-author Karen Casey, who wrote the bestselling recovery classic Each Day a New Beginning, harnesses this power to transform life’s struggles into a devotional outlook. These heartfelt meditations encourage the optimism needed for continuous change. It doesn’t matter what we call the goodness we wish to be and see—God or otherwise. It only matters that we hold it in our hearts and affairs as we create a new life. That is the truest definition of a Higher Power.
  alcoholics and god: The Greatest Thing in the World Henry Drummond, 2009-04-01 Famed Scottish theological writer and lecturer Henry Drummond helped spread the Evangelical movement in Europe. This volume collects many of Drummond's most beloved lectures and sermons -- a perfect on-the-go read for believers looking for inspiration.
  alcoholics and god: Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers Alcoholics Anonymous, 1980 A biography, with recollections of early A.A. in the Midwest.
  alcoholics and god: My Dirty Little Secrets - Steroids, Alcohol & God , 2009-01-01 On the 20th anniversary of his draft in 1989, former Green Bay Packer Mandarich reveals the reasons why he never achieved what was expected of him. His story is an inspiration for alcoholics and drug abusers, and offers hope for those trying to help themselves out of the nightmare of addiction.
  alcoholics and god: The Collected Ernie Kurtz Ernest Kurtz, 2008 Ernest Kurtz has been the outstanding thinker of the A.A. tradition's second generation, the one who played a constant leadership role in pushing the movement towards the highest professional standards of history writing and supplied some of its most influential interpretive concepts. His ideas are vitally important for anyone who wishes to understand A.A. history during the period following Bill Wilson's death in 1971. As a Ph.D. student at Harvard University in the 1970's, he was the first researcher to be granted full access to the archives of Alcoholics Anonymous. The book that resulted, Not-God: A History of Alcoholics Anonymous (1979), is still the classic work on early A.A. history. His book on the spiritual life-Ernest Kurtz and Katherine Ketcham, The Spirituality of Imperfection: Modern Wisdom from Classic Stories (1992)-is equally well known, and has also been an enduring best seller through the years since it appeared. His work on Shame & Guilt (orig. pub. 1981, rev. ed. 2007) has given a whole new depth to the discussion of those two vital recovery issues. This present book, containing twelve key articles written by Kurtz between 1982 and 1996, gives us a fourth volume from his hand, displaying the impressive range and breadth of his thought on alcoholism, addiction, and spirituality. Here under one cover is Kurtz at his best: historian, gadfly, teacher, interpreter, and master storyteller . This is must reading for any student of Alcoholics Anonymous and the evolution of spirituality in America. -William L. White, author of Slaying the Dragon: The History of Addiction Treatment and Recovery in America
  alcoholics and god: God is for the Alcoholic Jerry G. Dunn, 1965
  alcoholics and god: A Secular Sobriety Dale K., 2017-06-02 A Secular Sobriety will help alcoholics and addicts to understand the fellowship and program of Alcoholics Anonymous without having to accept anyone else's beliefs or having to deny their own. It includes a secular and non-sexist version of the first 164 pages of the Big Book bringing a 78 year old text into the 21st century. A Secular Sobriety brings truth to AA's claim to be spiritual, but not religious. The author offers insightful commentary regarding AA's fellowship, program, organization and its primary text. Succeeding over the misery of addiction is within the reach of any person regardless of personal beliefs. There is no reason for religious conversion to be a part of any 12 Step program.
  alcoholics and god: Daily Reflections A a, Aa World Services Inc, 2017-07-27 This is a book of reflections by A.A. members for A.A. members. It was first published in 1990 to fulfill a long-felt need within the Fellowship for a collection of reflections that moves through the calendar year--one day at a time. Each page contains a reflection on a quotation from A.A. Conference-approved literature, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, As Bill Sees It and other books. These reflections were submitted by members of the A.A. Fellowship who were not professional writers, nor did they speak for A.A. but only for themselves, from their own experiences in sobriety. Thus the book offers sharing, day by day, from a broad cross section of members, which focuses on the Three Legacies of Alcoholics Anonymous: Recovery, Unity and Service. Daily Reflections has proved to be a popular book that aids individuals in their practice of daily meditation and provides inspiration to group discussions even as it presents an introduction for some to A.A. literature as a whole.
  alcoholics and god: The Good Book and The Big Book Dick B, 2011-08-05 The Good Book and the Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible is the most popular of Dick B.'s 42 titles. It traces the precise A.A. Big Book and 12 Step language that came from the Bible. Christians and AAs alike acclaim this title's thorough review of early A.A. sources showing the Bible's role in A.A.'s recovery ideas. This book demonstrates how God helps alcoholics recover if they want His help.
  alcoholics and god: The Freud-Jung Letters Sigmund Freud, C. G. Jung, 1994-07-31 This abridged edition makes the Freud/Jung correspondence accessible to a general readership at a time of renewed critical and historical reevaluation of the documentary roots of modern psychoanalysis. This edition reproduces William McGuire's definitive introduction, but does not contain the critical apparatus of the original edition.
  alcoholics and god: Bill W Robert Thomsen, 2010-08-12 Robert Thomsen's biography describes the story of Bill W., a stirring spiritual odyssey through triumph, failure, and rebirth, with vital meaning for men and women everywhere. This is the story of a man whose discovery and vision have changed the lives of millions of people throughout the world. Robert Thomsen's biography takes readers through the events of Bill W.'s life, all the while detailing Bill's growing dependence on alcohol. Thomsen writes of the collapse that brought Bill to the verge of death and of the luminous instant of insight that saved him. This turning point led Bill to the encounter in 1935 with Dr. Bob and the start of what was to be a new beginning for countless others who despaired of finding rescue and redemption. Every night at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings around the world, a speaker says, Our stories disclose in a general way what we used to be like, what happened, and what we are like now. This describes the story of Bill W., a stirring spiritual odyssey through triumph, failure, and rebirth, with vital meaning for men and women everywhere.
  alcoholics and god: Emotional Sobriety Aa Grapevine, 2011 Volume Two of one of our most popular books. Sober AA members describe the positive transformations sobriety can bring as they practice the principles of the program in all aspects of their lives.
  alcoholics and god: House of Earth and Blood Sarah J. Maas, 2020-03-03 A #1 New York Times bestseller! Sarah J. Maas's brand-new CRESCENT CITY series begins with House of Earth and Blood: the story of half-Fae and half-human Bryce Quinlan as she seeks revenge in a contemporary fantasy world of magic, danger, and searing romance. Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She'll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths. Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose-to assassinate his boss's enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he's offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach. As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City's underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion-one that could set them both free, if they'd only let it. With unforgettable characters, sizzling romance, and page-turning suspense, this richly inventive new fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas delves into the heartache of loss, the price of freedom-and the power of love.
  alcoholics and god: The Heart of Addiction Mark E. Shaw, 2008-09-01 Substance abusers, addicts with a physical dependency, and those who cannot stop some type of pleasurable activity can gain insights and practical help from the hopeful message from the Bible regarding addictive thoughts and behavior.
  alcoholics and god: Sober by the Grace of God Mary T. Wilkinson, 2016-12-14 Don Wenning's first drink of whisky turned into his first drunk. He liked how he felt when he was drunk and he spent the next twenty years of his life as an active alcoholic much to the dismay of his parents, siblings, wife, and children. His wife, Theresa, didn't want to divorce him. She just wanted him to love her and their 13 children more than he loved the bottle. When Don hit the bottom he finally saw himself for who he was; a sinner with no hope without God's intervention and forgiveness. With the help of a twelve-step program, and a new found faith in their Heavenly Father, Don and Theresa stayed married, stayed sober, and helped countless alcoholics do the same. This is their story as told to the author and to hundreds of AA and Al-Anon members across this nation.
  alcoholics and god: God Gave Wine Kenneth L Gentry, 2015-11-17 Engages a careful lexical, exegetical and theological examination of the Bible on the question of the Christian use of alcoholic beverages. It demonstrates that the wine was alcoholic and that the Bible allows a moderate, circumspect use of alcoholic beverages.
  alcoholics and god: The EZ Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous Member A.A., 2015-06-30 Finally! The book that thousands of alcoholics have been waiting for! An updated version of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This edited revision of the old, basic text is reader-friendly and carries the exact same message as the 1939 version of Alcoholics Anonymous. It's written in a style that's friendly to readers of any gender, race, or spiritual path. Until now, Bill Wilson's 1939 book has never been edited for modern readers. This book is for: Women who object to the sexist language in the original Big Book. The EZ Big Book is gender neutral. All partners of alcoholics, including gays and lesbians. The EZ Big Book makes no assumption about the genders or marital status of partners. Alcoholics at all reading levels. The language is reader-friendly and journalistic in tone. Readers of any faith, including agnostics. The spiritual references in the book are all-encompassing. Non-English speakers. Readers for whom English is a second language buy the EZ Big Book because the writing is simple and direct. About the Author The author is a retired science and nature writer with double-digit of sobriety. Her last years of drinking took her to emergency rooms several times and finally to rehab.
  alcoholics and god: Common Sense Recovery Adam N., 2019-08 Religion was once the primary way to understand human behavior. This was certainly true when the book Alcoholics Anonymous was written in 1939. But, we have learned much over the past 80 years. Common Sense Recovery began as the journal of a long-standing member of AA during a time in his life when he was struggling to reconcile the religious language of Alcoholics Anonymous with his new-found atheism and scientific understanding of addiction and the recovery process. The short chapters articulate a non-religious, practical understanding of the fundamental principles at work in the program, and examine the 12 Steps from a secular perspective. Now in its third edition, this work continues to be a valuable guide for many who struggle with the religious nature and language of AA and contains important insights for the future of the fellowship.
  alcoholics and god: What We Talk About When We Talk About God Rob Bell, 2014-09-02 How God is described today strikes many as mean, primitive, backward, illogical, tribal, and at odds with the frontiers of science. At the same time, many intuitively feel a sense of reverence and awe in the world. Can we find a new way to talk about God? Pastor and New York Times bestselling author Rob Bell does here for God what he did for heaven and hell in Love Wins: he shows how traditional ideas have grown stale and dysfunctional and reveals a new path for how to return vitality and vibrancy to how we understand God. Bell reveals how we got stuck, why culture resists certain ways of talking about God, and how we can reconnect with the God who is with us, for us, and ahead of us, pulling us forward into a better future—and ready to help us live life to the fullest.
  alcoholics and god: I Stand by the Door Helen Smith Shoemaker, 1967
  alcoholics and god: Christianity and Alcoholics Anonymous David L. Simmons, 2012-09 Defense of the Gospel None could deny that A.A. has taught hundreds of thousands of alcoholics to live in continuous sobriety. But a bigger question is, “By what means—and with what consequences—does A.A. accomplish this minor miracle?” Could we, for example, lay A.A. literature side by side with Scripture and conclude the two are in steady harmony? Or could it actually be possible that they contradict one another? And if that were the case, would we be wise to point to our continued sobriety as proof we have also been reconciled with God? By contrasting what Scripture has to say on the subject of addiction, this book will uncover A.A.’s teachings at great depth. Simultaneously it will help you to precisely diagnose the deception of Alcoholics Anonymous. Followers of Christ, A.A. members, and their families can ill afford to miss dozens of eye-opening revelations as David Simmons delivers his compassionate message of hope. See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy… Colossians 2:8 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10
  alcoholics and god: Sober with God Joseph Antonio Liao, 2020-12-27 Are you struggling with drug addiction and alcoholism? Is your family suffering from brokenness and pain because of drugs, alcohol, and pills? Are you desperate for God, relief, and healing? Like a lingering pandemic, drug and alcohol abuse is a deadly menace that has afflicted humankind throughout the ages. Let God touch and heal you and your family from this dreaded scourge, even in the comforts of your home.Sober with God is a comprehensive and concise resource for every individual and family stricken with drug dependency. The overriding narrative of the book reveals the power of divine healing-a collaboration between God and secular methods of recovery. Discover God as our Great Healer as evidenced by Scriptures. Know the hard facts and views from current events, history, trusted global institutions, and respected authorities on addiction and recovery. Read about the compelling stories of defeats and victories of individuals that will inspire and give you hope in gaining deliverance and divine healing. Learn: How to seek God, build up your faith, and become a new creation in Christ--The essential principles of recovery and divine healing. --How to overcome negativity and sins that hinder recovery.--How to conquer temptations and triggers that lead to drug use and relapse.--The role of rehab, support group, church, and family in recovery.--The powerful God-given tools in conquering chronic addiction and alcoholism
  alcoholics and god: New Light on Alcoholism Dick B., 1999 Dick B. is a writer, historian, Bible student, retired attorney, and active recovered member of A.A. He and his son Ken devoted many years to researching the role, life, writings, and contributions of Rev.Samuel M. Shoemaker to Alcoholics Anonymous. The quest took Dick B. to Shoemaker's churches in Pittsburgh and New York, to the Episcopal Church Archives in Austin, Texas, to Hartford Seminary, to Princeton University, and to the family and friends of this great Episcopal rector and preacher. In all, Dick B. has published 33 books on the history of early A.A.
  alcoholics and god: Al-Anons Twelve Steps & Twelve Traditions Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc, 2005-12-01