TWENTY TWENTY-SIX
A thankful heart in recovery - November 5th
Reading from Psalm 107:1-2
O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy.
When we find ourselves trapped in the chains of addiction, gratitude is often the very first thing that disappears. Despair, guilt, and resentment cloud our vision until we can see nothing good left in our lives. We feel alienated from family, from hope, and from God.
Yet scripture reminds us that thanksgiving is not born out of perfect circumstances, but out of a grateful recognition of who God is. When Christ breaks the chains of sin and addiction, He rescues our souls from the deepest pit. Even when the road to recovery feels steep and difficult, we have a lasting anchor in His unfailing grace.
As November begins, let us take a moment to look back at the pit from which the Lord delivered us. If you have been redeemed, let your voice speak it aloud. True recovery begins with a heart that pauses to say: 'Lord, thank You for pulling me out of darkness into Your marvelous light.' ~ js
The shelter of grace - November 12th
Reading from Psalm 46:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
In the throes of trial and the battle against temptation, it often feels as though the world is collapsing around us. The enemy loves to whisper that we are entirely alone, that our weakness makes us beyond help, and that defeat is inevitable.
God's Word tells a completely different story. He is not a distant spectator watching us struggle from afar; He is a very present help in trouble. When the storms of craving, shame, or despair rage, His shelter remains unshakable. We do not have to conquer our battles in human strength alone, because His grace is made perfect in our weakness.
Today, whatever storm is pressing against your heart, retreat into the presence of the Master. Surrender your burden at the cross and find peace in knowing that His everlasting arms will never let you fall. ~ js
Renewed day by day - November 19th
Reading from Lamentations 3:22-23
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
How often do we carry yesterday's failures into today's walk? In addiction recovery and spiritual growth, the weight of regret can be paralyzing. We replay our mistakes, our relapses, and our poor choices, forgetting that God's compassions never run dry.
Every sunrise in November brings a fresh supply of divine mercy. God does not demand that you fix your entire past in a single moment. He invites you to walk faithfully with Him today, trusting that His grace is sufficient for this very hour. When you stumble, do not stay down in defeat; turn immediately back to the Father who receives you with open arms.
Take heart this morning. The Lord's mercies are renewed for you right now, and His faithfulness will carry you through every step of the journey. ~ js
In everything give thanks - November 26th
Reading from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Thanksgiving week reminds us to count our blessings, but scripture calls us to something deeper than seasonal gratitude: giving thanks in everything. Notice the Bible does not say to give thanks *for* every circumstance or every hardship, but *in* every situation.
Even in the midst of recovery struggles, painful family memories, or difficult trials, we can remain thankful because our Savior never changes. He is working all things together for good to those who love Him. When we choose praise over complaint, the chains of bitterness and defeat lose their grip on our spirits.
May your heart be filled with genuine worship as you reflect on Jesus' redeeming sacrifice and His faithful presence in your daily walk. Praise Him today, for He is good! ~ js
