October 30

PRINCIPLE OF PURITY

"To sum up about sex: We earnestly pray for the right ideal, for guidance in each questionable situation, for sanity, and for strength to do the right thing" Alcoholics Anonymous, page 70

“Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” 2 Timothy 2:22

For what it's worth: Lust fed my alcoholism and nearly devoured my recovery. Only the grace of God could have instilled in me a pure heart - and only in Alcoholics Anonymous. There I found the necessary Steps and a wise sponsor. In sobriety I have to be open and honest with myself, my sponsor, and my Higher Power about my actions and my motives. Once I fearlessly inventoried and admitted this defect in Steps Four and Five, I have to be persistent with Steps Six and Seven, seeking willingness to be rid of the demon, fiercely praying for guidance and strength to do the right thing. I avoid those who do not support my efforts, and I thank God I have found so many in our Fellowship who are good examples practicing our principle of purity.

God bless you.
Joe W.

October 31

PRAYER

“As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength.” Psalm 138:3

“Perhaps one of the greatest rewards of meditation and prayer is the sense of belonging that comes to us.” Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, page 105

For what it’s worth: Alcohol devoured my family. When I asked God to return them, He refused. That was my last prayer for many lonely years and the beginning of the advanced stages of alcoholism. When I finally entered the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous, I had no intention of ever praying. With sober time, the grace of God, and the encouragement of A.A. members, I slowly began to pray. I find sometimes His answer is "Wait" or “According to my plan, not yours". He seems so slow at times and I have to ask Him for patience. When I wait quietly, humbly and sincerely asking that His will be done, not mine, I come to realize He is always right there with me, always answers my prayers, often in miraculous ways, proving His love and showing me once again He will never let me down.

God bless you.
Joe W.