In an AA meeting today, I heard someone share about recovery rooted in scripture. It reminded me of Paul’s writings in the Book of Romans, where he speaks of God’s grace and the necessity of faith—for both Jew and Gentile.
This message of grace and faith is not just theology; it is recovery in action.
Grace and Faith in Recovery
Paul teaches that we are justified not by works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ and the grace of God. No amount of personal effort alone can conquer addiction. Grace saves, and faith opens the door.
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Romans 3:28 — “A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”
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2 Nephi 25:23 — “It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.”
For me, admitting powerlessness and turning to a Power greater than myself began the journey. Faith became the channel through which grace gave me strength to overcome cravings. Faith is not just belief—it is trust in God’s promises and willingness to act. In recovery, that means working the steps, surrendering daily, and trusting God to do what we cannot do.
The Power of Grace
Scripture and recovery literature echo the same truth: grace changes us at the core.
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Romans 5:1–2 — “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God… by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand.”
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Mosiah 4:2–3 — Through faith in Christ, the people received forgiveness and peace of conscience.
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Bill W., Big Book p. 57 — “When we drew near to Him He disclosed Himself to us!”
Grace is more than forgiveness—it is transformation. It frees us from the need to rely on sheer willpower and brings lasting change.
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Elder Bruce C. Hafen — “Grace is not a supplement; it is the very power that enables both forgiveness and transformation.”
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Romans 6:14 — “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”
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Mosiah 5:2 — “The Spirit of the Lord… has wrought a mighty change in us, that we have no more disposition to do evil.”
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Bill W., Big Book p. 75 — “We feel we are on the Broad Highway, walking hand in hand with the Spirit of the Universe.”
Nothing Can Separate Us
Addiction isolates. Grace reconnects. Paul’s words in Romans 8:38–39 assure us that nothing—“neither death, nor life”—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Grace bridges the impossible gap, reconciling us with God, with life, and with love.
Closing Thought
Recovery is living proof of Romans 5:20:
“Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.”
Grace is not abstract—it is real in recovery. Faith is not theory—it is daily trust that God will carry us through. Together, they form the path back to God, to freedom, and to life.
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