When my wife and son died, I blamed you God. It was your fault.   I turned my back on you, Lord.  I suffered in addiction for 18 years.  Now coming to Loaves and Fishes, I understand your love and mercy for me.  Through all this you are giving me peace.  

Response:  Thank you Lord for Your Mercy and the Peace that only comes through You.

Throughout my addiction, while I got “high” and “escaped”, when I came down there was always the shame for what I did.  That shame and guilt grew huge and held me hostage.  Now I understand that sin and evil are that way.  

Response:  Thank you for Your forgiveness, my Lord.

When I was young, we moved around a lot so I was always the “new” kid and it was hard for me to fit in and I was bullied.  By doing drugs, I was part of a “cool guys” and I had a false sense of identity.  In my sobriety, I now see a real sense of purpose for my life. I am accepted here by you, God, and I have a true sense of identity.  

Response:  Help us to be mindful, Lord, that we are all your children.

I’m learning to have faith and trust in you.  As You tell us, “Be still and know that I am God”.  I have learned I need to calm my mind, listen for your voice and learn what your will is for my life.  But it’s so hard Lord because I’m used to being in control and fixing everything myself.  Me – trying to “control everything” – admittedly that hasn’t worked so good.

Response:  God, you are in control.  Give us patience to listen for you voice.

Thank you, Lord God, for your amazing promises. “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”.  Lord, give me patience and faith in you.

Response:  Your plans for my life will be beyond any I can imagine.

Lord, I want to do my part.  I want to be proactive but I am learning I have to wait for your plans for me and not get ahead of you.  I will spend time in prayer for your guidance and understanding your Scriptures.

Response:  We pray for wisdom and understanding Your Ways as we study the Scriptures. 

Our time in the program here is a short three months.  I worry about will I find a job and an affordable place to live? Will the community accept me?  Jesus tells us, “Do Not Worry” but have faith that God will care for us.  God will provide.    

Response: We know that in Your time and ways You will always provide.

Have Faith and Trust in God.  We shout out, thanks be to You, our God!

Reflecting on 1 John 3: 1-3, Psalm 46: 10, Jeremiah 29: 11 and Matthew 6: 25-34.

A psalm written by the men in Loaves and Fishes recovery group