Finding Sanity: How Believing in Jesus Christ Changes Everything
- eradicate1978
- 9 hours ago
- 5 min read
In today's fast-paced and unpredictable world, many of us struggle with a sense of dissatisfaction and mental issues. For those seeking recovery, understanding sanity can be the game-changer. Step 2 of Celebrate Recovery states, “We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” This is not just a lesson in spirituality; it’s about hope, reimagining our lives, and reclaiming our sanity through belief in something greater than ourselves.
Understanding the Concept of Sanity
Most 12-Step programs begin with insanity being described as "doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result." Sanity refers to mental clarity and emotional balance. The dictionary defines it as “the ability to think and behave in a normal and rational manner.” The 12-step definition is "wholeness of mind; making decisions based on the truth."
Yet, what starts as a typical reaction to stress can quickly spiral into chaos. According to the National Institute of Mental Health around 51.5 million adults in the U.S. experience mental illness, illustrating how common this struggle is.
In recovery, sanity often feels like a distant dream. However, through Step 2, we learn that we can't control everything. Believing in a higher power helps alleviate our burdens, encouraging us to heal, and helps us restore the order we crave in our lives.
The Power of Belief
Belief can be incredibly effective. When we acknowledge we're not alone in our struggles, we open ourselves to new possibilities. Our higher power—Jesus Christ—provides us a stability that goes beyond our limitations.
By believing in God's mighty power, we can shift our focus from what we lack to unlimited possibility. A positive mindset can significantly affect our mental health. Faith improves our well-being by filling us with hope, which in turn empowers us to pave the way for recovery and help us to regain sanity amid life's chaos.
Celebrate Recovery's Lesson 4 Acrostic: SANITY
The acrostic SANITY is used in Celebrate Recovery to help individuals remember key concepts related to maintaining a healthy mindset and overcoming challenges. Each letter represents an important principle:
S - Strength
Jesus gives us strength to face the fears that in the past have caused us to fight, flee, or freeze.
Read Psalm 46:1 and 73:26
A - Acceptance
We learn to have realistic expectations of ourselves and others.
Read Romans 15:7
N - New life
We discover that we have an opportunity for a second chance! We do not have to live by our old ways any longer.
Read 2 Corinthians 5:17
I - Integrity
We begin to follow through on our promises. Others start trusting what we say.
Read 3 John 4
T - Trust
We begin to trust relationships with others and our Higher Power, Jesus Christ!
Read Proverbs 29:25
Y - Your Higher Power, Jesus Christ, loves you just the way you are!
No matter what you have done in the past, God wants to forgive you!
Read Romans 5:8
No matter what shape your life is in today, together God and you can handle it!
Read 1 Corinthians 10:13
If you take action completing the next principle, your future will be blessed and secure!
Read Matthew 6:34
The Biblical Perspective
From a biblical standpoint, surrendering to a higher power is a key theme. Scriptures remind us of divine support in tough times. "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7 tells us. This verse encourages individuals to relinquish their burdens and trust in His divine assistance.
Moreover, Philippians 4:6-7 urges us to be anxious about nothing and to bring our concerns to God through prayer. This connection with a higher power helps us find peace and joy, and it can ultimately restore our sanity.
Practical Steps to Cultivate Belief
Read the Bible: Spend 10-15 minutes daily reading God's Word. His voice will never ring as clear to you through any other device.
Pray and Reflect: Spend 10-15 minutes daily reflecting on your relationship with a God. This can be as simple as focusing on your breath or writing down your thoughts and feelings.
Join a Community: Connect with a group of individuals who want to share your journey of recovery. Sharing your experiences will nurture feelings belonging, leading you into accountability. Maintaining your recovery will be much easier with strong social support. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness; it is a courageous and empowering step toward regaining sanity.
Finding Peace in Chaos
Believing in Jesus does not eliminate our daily challenges. Instead, it changes how we perceive them. With this faith, we can face difficulties with a spirit of courage, knowing that our struggles can lead to personal growth. Stress and strains will persist but surrendering them to God can bring a peace the world cannot understand.
Consider the peaceful imagery found in nature, often depicted in biblical passages. The metaphor of still water symbolizes tranquility and renewal. Embracing this idea, think of your faith as an oasis amid life's storms.
The Role of Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is vital on this journey. When we acknowledge and appreciate both big and small blessings, we create a positive cycle that connects us with Father above. Psalm 107:8-9 encourages us to give thanks for God's love and kindness.
Journaling about what you are thankful for can enhance your feelings of hope and sanity through faith. Regularly practicing gratitude will increase our joy and life satisfaction.
Embracing Your Path to Recovery
Recovery is a complex journey, but embracing belief in a higher power can change how we perceive our struggles. By letting go and trusting in something greater than ourselves, we can find our way back to sanity. The road may not always be smooth, but having faith—using prayer, our community, and personal reflection—we will begin to restore balance in our lives.
Exploring Step 2 of Celebrate Recovery reminds us that sanity isn't just about control; it’s about letting go and trusting in a higher power. Embrace the journey, lean into faith, and remember you are never alone. As you travel the paths of recovery, you will discover that trusting in Jesus Christ truly changes everything.
Principle 2 Prayer
Dear God, I have tried to "fix" and "control" my life's hurts, hang-ups, or habits all by myself. I admit that, by myself, I am powerless to change. I need to begin to believe and receive Your power to help me recover. You loved me enough to send Your Son to the cross to die for my sins. Help me to be open to the hope that I can only find in Him. Please help me start living my life one day at a time. In Jesus name I pray. Amen
Lesson 4 C.R. Step Study Journal Questions*
What things have you been doing over and over again, expecting a different result each time (insanity)?
What is your definition of sanity?
How have your past expectations of yourself or others been realistic? Give examples.
In the past, how has trusting in your own feelings and emotions gotten you into trouble?
How can your Higher Power, Jesus Christ, help restore you to make sane decisions? How do you get a second chance?
What areas of your life are you ready to release control of and hand over to God? Be specific.