In the journey of addiction recovery, the 12-step program provides a spiritual framework for personal transformation. Among the pivotal moments in this process are the Third Step Prayer and the Seventh Step Prayer, which encourage surrender and humility. These prayers are more than words; they are heartfelt commitments to change and a connection to a Higher Power.
This article explores the meanings, origins, and applications of these prayers, offering insights for those in recovery and anyone seeking spiritual growth.
The Third Step Prayer
The Third Step in the 12-step program is about surrendering your will and life to the care of a Higher Power as you understand it. The prayer associated with this step captures the essence of this commitment:
“God, I offer myself to Thee—to build with me and to do with me as Thou wilt. Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy will. Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of Life. May I do Thy will always!”
Breaking Down the Third Step Prayer
- Surrender to God’s Will: Offering yourself to a Higher Power symbolizes letting go of control.
- Relief from Self-Bondage: Acknowledging that selfishness often drives addiction and asking for freedom from it.
- Overcoming Difficulties: Seeking help to face challenges, not just for personal gain but to inspire others.
- Commitment to God’s Will: An ongoing intention to align actions with spiritual principles.
How to Practice the Third Step Prayer
- Morning Ritual: Start each day with this prayer to set a tone of surrender and purpose.
- Journaling: Reflect on how you’ve followed or resisted God’s will.
- Meditation: Use the prayer as a mantra for mindfulness and focus.
The Seventh Step Prayer
The Seventh Step involves humbly asking your Higher Power to remove your shortcomings. This prayer represents a deep acknowledgment of personal flaws and a willingness to change:
“My Creator, I am now willing that you should have all of me, good and bad. I pray that you now remove from me every single defect of character which stands in the way of my usefulness to you and my fellows. Grant me strength, as I go out from here, to do your bidding. Amen.”
Breaking Down the Seventh Step Prayer
- Complete Surrender: Offering all parts of yourself, both strengths and weaknesses, to your Higher Power.
- Removal of Defects: A humble request to eliminate behaviors and attitudes that hinder personal growth.
- Commitment to Service: Aligning personal transformation with the goal of helping others.
How to Practice the Seventh Step Prayer
- Self-Reflection: Identify specific shortcomings to address in prayer.
- Evening Review: End the day by considering where character defects showed up.
- Accountability: Share your progress with a sponsor or trusted friend.
The Connection Between the Third and Seventh Steps
The Third Step Prayer is about surrendering your will, while the Seventh Step Prayer focuses on removing the barriers to living in alignment with that will. Together, these steps create a cycle of spiritual growth:
- Third Step: “I trust in my Higher Power.”
- Seventh Step: “I’m ready to change with my Higher Power’s help.”
Both prayers encourage humility, faith, and action, fostering a deeper connection to the recovery process and a Higher Power.
Practical Tips for Using the Prayers in Recovery
- Consistency: Incorporate these prayers into your daily routine to reinforce their principles.
- Community: Share your experiences with others in recovery to gain insights and support.
- Personalization: Adapt the prayers to fit your understanding of a Higher Power.
- Service: Use your recovery journey to inspire and help others.
FAQ related to 3rd Step And 7th Step Prayer
What is the purpose of the 3rd Step Prayer in AA?
The 3rd Step Prayer is a commitment to surrender one’s will and life to a Higher Power, seeking relief from self-centeredness to better align with spiritual principles.
Why doesn’t the 3rd Step Prayer end with ‘Amen’?
The 3rd Step Prayer does not conclude with ‘Amen,’ symbolizing that the process of surrender is ongoing. The 7th Step Prayer includes ‘Amen,’ indicating a progression and completion of that particular step.
How can I incorporate the 3rd and 7th Step Prayers into my daily routine?
Many individuals recite these prayers during morning meditation to set a daily intention of surrender and humility, fostering spiritual growth throughout the day.
Are there variations of the 3rd and 7th Step Prayers for different belief systems?
Yes, there are alternative versions of these prayers tailored to various spiritual beliefs, including interpretations for atheists, agnostics, and followers of different faiths.
What is the significance of combining the 3rd and 7th Step Prayers?
Combining these prayers emphasizes a continuous journey of surrender and humility, reinforcing the commitment to personal growth and alignment with one’s Higher Power.
Final Thoughts
The Third and Seventh Step Prayers are profound tools for personal transformation. By practicing surrender and humility, individuals in recovery can overcome self-centeredness and live in alignment with spiritual principles. Whether you’re new to the 12-step program or deep in your journey, these prayers serve as guiding lights, reminding you to trust in a Higher Power and embrace change.
Recovery is a daily process, and these prayers can help you navigate it with faith and courage. Let them be a cornerstone of your spiritual practice, helping you find freedom and purpose one day at a time.
Explore More Resources
- Visit our Find a Meeting page to locate AA or NA groups near you.
- Track your progress with our Sobriety Calculator and celebrate milestones.
- Start fresh every day with Daily Reflections.
- Discover recovery lessons at Spiritual Principles a Day.
- Stay motivated with today’s Just For Today reflection.
Official AA and NA Resources
- Learn more about the 12 Steps at the official Alcoholics Anonymous website.
- For support and resources, visit the Narcotics Anonymous official website.
- Find virtual meetings on the AA Online Intergroup.
