What company do you keep?
In our days of using drugs and alcohol, our choices weren’t always the healthiest. We were pulling all-nighters, developing poor habits, and spending time with lousy influences. The days were a blur and there was a lack of motivation to change. The company we kept was not encouraging us along our recovery.
Our friends can have a major impact on us, whether we know it or not. When we spend a lot of time with those that have a distaste for change/ improvement or disdain for Christ, we can easily pick up their attitudes and begin to imitate their actions. You are who you roll with.
Be aware of: People, places, and things – as they will trigger and drag you down faster than a lead balloon.
BE AWARE OF PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS.
When we were steeped in our addiction, there was no motivation for self-improvement. However, now on the road to recovery, change may be the only thing that will keep you alive. It’s important to be vigilant about your surroundings and the people you spend time with.
1 Corinthians 15:33 – Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”
You have been called and saved from the darkness of addiction. You have a new heart and a new spirit within you.
In order for things to change for you, you have to be willing to make the change. Start connecting with people who are pursuing a recovery lifestyle. Not just a passing fad. But those who attend meetings, retreats, meet regularly with their sponsor, and have a decent amount of clean time. Consider networking with people that aren’t in recovery (but support yours, of cour
se!) that enjoy doing healthy activities that you also enjoy. Bowling, video games, going to the movies, or mountain biking.
When we get clean, then go back to the old, using crowd we hung out with before, we are likely to relapse.
2 Corinthians 6:14 – Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light without darkness?
Our experience shows that people living in recovery housing or spending time with like-minded individuals and working toward a common goal, experience a much higher rate of success than those who return to their old environment or circle of friends.
“You cannot change the people around you, but you can change the people you choose to be around. -Anonymous
By surrounding yourself with positive influences, your outlook improves and you’re likely to have longer clean time. Actively seek out positive experiences, activities, and people. The concept of change is challenging, but building a new foundation that supports sobriety, that’s life producing!