Do I need a Higher Power for 12-Steps?

Does God Need to Be Part of My Recovery?

By: 2SC Staff

For many seeking recovery, the 12 Step concept of “Higher Power” represents a serious barrier. This article is for those finding the God language difficult. 12-step programs continue to be the primary solution offered to those attempting to address addiction or compulsive behavior.  There are some other programs out there but they aren’t emphasized or nearly as plentiful.  (See #4 below for details).

Higher Power and Recovery

Taking that first step in addressing addiction is really difficult in its own right.  Admitting you have a problem and going to your first meeting can be downright terrifying! And yet – even knowing there’s hope out there can provide relief that it’s possible to stop the madness of addiction.  And so, after summoning the courage to attend your first meeting some of you may feel very disheartened and defeated when hearing all the God talk. 

Keep in mind:

• – Not everyone believes in God.
• – Many have a history of abuse with religious clergy.
• – Some communities (i.e. LGBT) have been judged, dammed and ostracized by some religious/leadership.
• – Many people are suspicious of “spirituality” in general.
• – A number of people consider the God language as proof of a cult within the 12-step universe.  

 

It goes without saying that all of the above are very understandable and valid. However, just because it’s difficult doesn’t mean that it’s impossible.  For starters, those in the program are quick to point out that it isn’t religious – but spiritual.  This can be a helpful distinction. The Oxford Dictionary defines spirituality as having to do with the “non-physical part of a person which is the seat of emotions and character; the soul”  

The Free Dictionary defines spirituality as an “individual’s quest for understanding the true meaning of life which may or may not arise from or lead to community formation or ritual observance.”  

This can help allay some anxiety – knowing that it doesn’t necessarily involve dogma or a set of religious beliefs.  

And yet – all the “God” language remains!!  In the steps, “God” is mentioned in 5 of the 12 steps.  And nearly all meetings close with the Serenity Prayer – and some even with the Our Father! 

If one has a negative or traumatic reaction to nearly 50% of the steps, it’s super hard to hear the message or to find the 12 steps helpful or even possible.  

What is a person to do?  It’s easy to see why some despair or don’t know how to address their addiction if this is offered as the only solution. 

Here are a couple options to deal with the dilemma. 

1. Change the Definition. 

As some of the above indicate, spirituality is what you want it to be.  Ultimately it’s about a search for individual meaning in the context of recovery.  Most people can relate to the search for meaning.  Who hasn’t asked themselves, “What’s the meaning of life?” 

2. Change the Concept. 

Step Two refers to a “Power Greater than Ourselves.”  Elsewhere it says, “God – as we understood Him.”  This is helpful, because it can emphasizes your ability and right to define your Higher Power.  You don’t have to call it “God.”  This is perhaps the most helpful to those finding the entire God thing off putting.  Higher Power is simply anything that’s bigger than you.  I overheard someone say, “It doesn’t matter what your Higher Power is – as long as it’s not you.” 

In the book Narcotics Anonymous it reads: 

“We realized that we needed the help of some Power greater than our addiction. Our understanding of a Higher Power is up to us. No one is going to decide for us. We can call it the group, the program, or we can call it God. The only suggested guidelines are that this Power be loving, caring, and greater than ourselves.” 

The last part of this quote – that this Power be “loving, caring and greater than ourselves” – is especially helpful.  Not only is it broader than “spirituality” but it’s especially kind. 

Here are some ways to describe or define Higher Power.  

• The 12 steps
• People at the meetings
• A therapist
• Support Groups
• Self Help Books
• Supportive friends and family
• The Universe
• Your own creative and artistic pursuits
• Beauty
• Guided Meditation
• Art

 

These are all wonderful and beautiful ways to think of Higher Power.  God isn’t the only way! 

1. Take the Best and Leave the Rest. 

In addition to the God-talk, many take issue with other parts of the program or have strong reactions to comments people make.  Anyone who stays sober has taken in what makes and let go of that which doesn’t.  That includes the emphasis on “God.”  No aspect of the program needs to be a barrier in its own right. 

2. Seek Non 12-Step solutions. 

They’re not as common or well-known, but many have found them helpful. No belief in God necessary in either one.  Emphasis is on what you can do on your own to address your addiction. SMART Recovery (“Self-Management for Addiction Recovery). While SMART Recovery still has meetings, they’re more like support groups as they’re very interactive and education-focused.

 

 

Higher Power & Recovery Summary 

Hundreds of thousands of people have gotten clean and sober through 12 Step Programs.  While some don’t struggle with the concept of Higher Power, many do.  There are concrete ways in which you can deal with this dilemma, including seeking solutions elsewhere. Regardless of how you do this, you don’t get sober alone!  The point is that there is hope to address your addiction.  Hopefully some of these suggestions have been helpful. I am including a book recommendation here as well by Glenn Chestnut entitled, The Higher Power of Twelve Step Program for Believers and Not-Believers. I hope you find useful.  

Whether you’re questioning whether you have a problem or are seeking to address addiction, please feel free to call 2^nd Story Counseling at 773.528.1777 and speak with one of our counselors. You can also send a confidential note through our secure online contact form. 

The best of luck on finding the best way to address your addiction! Thanks for taking the time to read this post. Please Like 2^nd Story Counseling on Facebook, Circle us on Google Plus and share on Twitter!