My friend, Marie Koth, is sharing an encouraging word for the blog today.

“As I was reading comments on Facebook expressing anxiety and fear over this new coronavirus, I thanked God for all I have learned from years of recovery in Twelve-Step groups. The principles that help us addicts (no matter what our addiction is) recover and learn to deal with life in a healthier way are of benefit to anyone.  We are the fortunate ones who found our way into recovery. Here are some of the gems I’ve clung to in recovery:

In Step 1, we admit that we’re powerless over our addictive agent. What we’re powerless over in this pandemic is what other people do or don’t do, especially in social distancing. Getting angry at people who continue to gather in large groups only stresses us. It has no effect on them. We do, however, have control over our own actions and we can stay healthy if we follow the guidelines.

Step 2 calls us to believe that a Power greater than ourselves can restore us. For me that Power is God, who sent his son, Jesus, to die on a cross to pay the price for my sin and yours, and then raised him from the grave to give us life forever with Him. As believers, we have the Holy Spirit who gives us comfort, wisdom and power to deal with whatever life throws at us.

In Philippians 4:6-7 we are told, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  You might wonder how to be thankful in dealing with this pandemic. There is something to be learned from every difficulty in life. Hard times push us to grow emotionally and spiritually – for that we can be thankful. If we truly give our concerns to God and leave them with Him, we will have His peace that transcends all understanding, which leads to the next Step.

In Step 3 we make a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God.  That’s what Philippians 4:6-7 is all about. You see, God cares for us, about the big things and the small things – everything that we bring to Him. If we will trust Him with it all, we will have His peace, no matter how difficult the situation is.

Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” That’s a promise we can count on!

There are also some slogans that help keep us addicts on track:

Let Go and Let God – Give our cares to God and let Him handle them. He’s in control.

One Day at a Time – Deal with what today brings. Don’t start thinking what if this, what if that happens in the future. We only have today. Fretting about what might happen – worrying – wastes energy and causes unnecessary stress. If it’s hard to handle a whole day, deal with an hour at a time, or fifteen minutes.

Easy Does It – Staying home as much as possible to prevent spreading the coronavirus is an opportunity to slow down from the hectic pace of life and focus on what’s most important in life – our relationship with God and our loved ones. We can still communicate with our loved ones who don’t live with us. We are fortunate to live in the technology age, able to make video calls.

If you’re at home by yourself, check on others who are by themselves, especially the elderly. If you’re having a hard time dealing with all the uncertainty and beginning to stress, call a trusted friend (or sponsor).

This pandemic will end.  In the meantime, share your experience, strength and hope with those who are struggling. Helping others will also help you.”