A Fresh Look at the Spiritual Discipline of Devotion
(Aligned with Celebrate Recovery Step 11: Daily Prayer and Devotion)
Key Scripture:
"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." – Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Introduction: Why is Devotion Essential in Recovery?
Devotion is a daily commitment to grow closer to God. It is an intentional practice of setting aside time to be in His presence, listen, speak, and reflect. Step 11 in traditional 12 step calls us to:
"Seek through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry that out."
THRIVE believes that for recovery to be lasting, it must be spiritually anchored. It is foundational. This is why we have emphasized our first four steps as the 4 pillars. 1) I CAN'T... is the conclusion we must all come to regarding control over our own lives. 2). GOD CAN... is the realization that our Creator is in control IF WE WILL LET HIM. 3. LET GOD... is the decision to let go and let God. and 4) DEVOTION... is TRULY GETTING TO KNOW HIM... getting to know the God of Heaven and Earth, our Abba Father, our Savior, our King of Kings and our Lord of Lords.... Devotion is not about checking a religious box—it is about maintaining a daily connection with God that transforms our thinking, renews our hearts, and strengthens us to continue forward.
Without these 4 pillars... recovery... Christian wholeness.... the fullness of life in John 10:10 will never be found.
What is Devotion?
Devotion is more than reading a Bible verse or saying a quick prayer. It is:
✅ A daily meeting with God – Setting apart time to focus on Him.✅ An intentional act of surrender – Giving Him control over our recovery.✅ A process of transformation – Letting God’s truth reshape our thoughts.✅ A way to hear His voice – Seeking guidance and strength for the day.
Why is Daily Devotion Important in Recovery?
A consistent devotional life is critical for breaking old patterns and staying on the path of healing.
1. Anchors Your Heart & Mind
Keeps you grounded in truth rather than emotions.
Helps prevent relapse by aligning your mind with God’s promises.
2. Builds Spiritual Strength
Provides wisdom for making healthy choices.
Strengthens your ability to resist temptation and discouragement.
3. Deepens Your Relationship with God
Helps you understand His love and grace.
Increases your awareness of His presence in your daily life.
4. Promotes Emotional Healing
Allows you to surrender pain, shame, and burdens.
Replaces negative thought patterns with God’s truth.
How to Cultivate a Devoted Life
1. Set a Time & Place
Choose a quiet space where you can be still and uninterrupted.
Pick a time that works best for you (morning, lunch break, or before bed).
Be consistent—small, daily moments build a strong foundation.
2. Follow a Devotional Plan
Read through a structured Bible plan (e.g., one Psalm per day, Proverbs for wisdom, or a Celebrate Recovery devotional).
Consider journaling what God reveals to you. Write down thoughts, prayers, and lessons.
Use a devotional book or an app to guide you if needed.
3. Pray with Purpose
🙌 Start with Gratitude – Thank God for what He has done in your life.🛑 Confess & Surrender – Be honest about struggles and let go of burdens.🙏 Ask for Guidance & Strength – Seek wisdom for the day ahead.💙 Pray for Others – Intercede for those in your recovery community.
4. Meditate & Listen
Sit in silence and allow God’s Word to sink into your heart.
Reflect on how Scripture applies to your recovery journey.
Listen for His voice through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and life circumstances.
Suggested Daily Devotion Format
Step 1: Start with Prayer (2-5 minutes)
Thank God for another day.
Ask Him to open your heart and mind.
Step 2: Read a Bible Passage (5-10 minutes)
Example: Psalms for comfort, Proverbs for wisdom, or a specific devotional plan.
Reflect: What does this passage teach about God? How does it apply to my recovery?
Step 3: Journaling & Reflection (5-10 minutes)
Write down what stood out to you in the passage.
How does this impact your thoughts, decisions, and actions today?
Step 4: Close in Prayer (5 minutes)
Surrender your struggles to God.
Ask for strength to walk in His will.
Pray for others in recovery.
💡 Total Time: 15-30 minutes (or more as needed).
Encouragement for the Journey
Recovery is not just about avoiding the past—it is about building a new future anchored in Christ. Devotion is the daily fuel that keeps us moving forward. Take it one day at a time and let God transform you from the inside out.
🙋 Discussion Questions:1️⃣ How has daily devotion (or lack of it) impacted your recovery journey?2️⃣ What obstacles keep you from spending daily time with God?3️⃣ How can you make devotion a stronger habit?
Closing Challenge
📖 Challenge: Commit to 7 days of daily devotion using the format above. Track your progress and reflect on the difference it makes.
🤝 Accountability: Partner with someone from the group and check in daily about your devotion time.
Would you like a structured daily devotion guide to help you stay consistent? If so, we can create one together for the group!
"Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." – James 4:8
Let’s thrive in recovery by staying rooted in God’s presence, one day at a time! 🙏✨