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I never thought my faith would guide me through surviving what has become the most painful part of my life, but here I am.
One of the THOUSANDS of parents navigating an unfamiliar road, raising grandkids, supporting recovery, or watching addiction control and ravage a loved one’s life.
From an active, caring, hands-on mom to a parent, all cried out, I felt helpless and lost. All I had left were bold prayers; and the truth is, that is hard to accept.
I treasure Jesus. He’s my life raft and rock.
So many new age religions have you search in yourself for the fortitude to endure. Left to my own devices, I’d be wanting.
Not my God!
His love says, “Surrender, come to me all who are weary and heavily burdened, and I will carry you. Tether to me, my load is light, and yours is heavy. Give this to me.”
That is love.
My surrender allows my divine creator to be my strength in the middle of my weakness. There is no shame or guilt. There is only profound relief and deep comfort in knowing I am not alone in this journey.
That’s my God.
There’s an answer to every question. I’m not ‘centering myself’ in the emptiness and brokenness within. I am placing myself in the center of God’s wisdom, kindness, compassion, love, and rest. This space, filled with the ultimate blessing, is not just welcoming but necessary for our healing and growth.
Come.
Come all who are falling through the cracks of self-seeking confusion.
Come all who fall short and are sinners.
Come all who long to be carried through the pain.
Come all who are dipping in the well of mental ruin.
Come all who desire peace beyond your understanding.
Come all who long for joy and hope.
Come just as you; you are ready to go.
The time is now.
Come.
We don’t have to fear walking beyond the shadows. The guilt that plagues us, the failure that envelops us in turmoil, is a stronghold. We are not here to tether ourselves to the downfall of others. God says, “Tether to me.”
The control we seek is only an illusion that does not exist. Our loved ones are responsible for their choices, and we don’t get to choose their path. So, the idea that parents are to blame and remain shackled to their loved ones struggling with addiction is a lie.
But it’s your heart that wrestles your mind the most. I know. That’s because our love is true. Surrender is the only way. Because we cannot carry this for them, God says, “I will. Your burden is heavy. Give this to me.” And whether it is you, the parent, releasing years of stored shame and fatigue, or a loved one willing to say enough, God’s arms are always open, and his yoke is always light.
I lost myself in another’s addiction. I found myself in God’s embrace. Every day spent with Him was another day of recovery, (Amen)
For me, God is a source of strength and comfort. Every person fighting the demons of addiction and every family member fighting the demons that taunt us with their death deserves freedom from the prison and deep waters of loss, guilt, shame, anger, regret, and fear.
Step out of the shadows and feel the warmth in the love of Christ.
-Lisa
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