December 29, 2020 - LMA Opening Statement

LMA Principle - Opening Statement

LMA is based on the theme "We Are All Recovering From Something." As we know, many of our participants struggle with substance abuse and/or dependence. Yet, according to the AA Text (better known as the Big Book), the 12-step model states that alcohol is but a symptom. Therefore, drugs are a symptom, and sin/wrongdoing are symptoms.

Our premise is that we suffer from a much deeper malady than the substance or behavior. Our spiritual condition is the key to our recovery, redemption, and overall healing.

We are not here to force our views or beliefs upon one another. But to seek a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and with one another. Our goal is to grow in our spiritual life and to experience a more abundant life as a result of this relationship.

• Luke 4:18-19 (TPT): "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, and he has anointed me to be hope for the poor, freedom for the brokenhearted, and new eyes for the blind, and to preach to prisoners, 'You are set free!' I have come to share the message of Jubilee, for the time of God's great acceptance has begun."

• Luke 4:18-19 (Mirror Bible): He opened the scroll and rolled it out in order to find the specific place where the following was written, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to announce glad tidings to a starving people; he has commissioned me to announce the freedom of forgiveness [their true I-am-ness] to those held captive at spear-point by their guilt and shame; also, the blind may now look up and be restored in their sight! I am anointed to send out those who are bruised and traumatized into the freedom of their redeemed innocence. (19) I announce that the Jubilee year of the Lord has come! This is the liberation celebration of the Lord, embracing humanity home!"

The LMA model of recovery stresses that we are all recovering from something. The basis of all our troubles (issues) is the lack of a spiritual foundation. Our healing is a done deal. Recognize it. Live into it. Problems are just symptoms. Jesus is THE SOLUTION!

• Psalm 119:27 (TPT): Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom, and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders. Meditate upon God (Father-Son-Spirit); your understanding will be opened.

Enough said.

Blessings All Around,

Rannie Childress

Senior Pastor, Trinitarian Grace International