Listening with non-judgmental acceptance and offering empathy to suffering newcomers are core values offered in AA meetings. Attendees will notice creative power (what to say each night) and communication skills (how to say it) usually improve with prolonged membership, and oftentimes a deeper level of helpful introspection also develops as a result of this wonderful therapy. In recovery from alcohol (and drugs), many forms of therapy actually work, including psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral, psychotherapy, and group therapy; however, the AA fellowship has an outstanding (and free) track record of helping millions of suffering alcoholics (and addicts) find God and heal.
In many ways, it is a beautiful spiritual mission field of opportunity; however, the Bible verse that states in Matthew 9:37 “the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (NIV) is quite descriptive of the situation as a whole. The Christians who attend these meetings have a unique opportunity to witness and help bring these precious souls into a healthier walk with God. You may ask how this is done... (and for my friends who possess devotion to simplicity, here is something simple): Lead by example.
Christians have a responsibility to help those in need. In Proverbs 24:11 we find “Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.” (NIV) And in verse 14 it says “Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you.” (NIV) We also find in James 5:19-20 “My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” (NIV)
Christians not only have a responsibility to lead others to a healthy walk in Christ, but most importantly must show by example how to live a life exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit. Warn of the dangers of wickedness, encourage the pursuit of wisdom, and help people turn away from errors in their thinking.
Simplicity may provide comfort at first, but one must not stay there. Change and growth are vital to all persons in recovery - and keep in mind - you cannot remain the same and somehow change. The Bible speaks about the matter in Proverbs 1:22 “How long will you simple ones love your simple ways?” (NIV) Then again in Proverbs 8:5 we find “You who are simple, gain prudence…” (NIV) In Proverbs 14:15 it says “A simple man believes anything…” (NIV) And we find in Proverbs 14:18 “The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.” (NKJV)
While there is clear danger in overcomplicating matters for a newcomer, there should be gentle, steady progress toward the ideal of intelligent wisdom. Wisdom leads to clear judgment, and paves the way to long-term success.
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