Step Seven

“Humbly asked God [Higher Power] to remove our shortcomings.”

Humbly asked – meaning we do not feel we are better than other people.

our shortcomings – meaning our faults, weaknesses, and character defects.

In this step, we recognize the need to overcome our character defects, negative behaviors, and emotional or psychological weaknesses that may have contributed to our addictive patterns or unhealthy lifestyles. It involves acknowledging personal limitations and seeking assistance from a higher power, as understood within our spiritual or belief framework.

The focus of Step Seven is on humility and surrender, recognizing that self-will and self-reliance have proven ineffective in addressing the challenges of addiction. By humbly asking our higher power for help, we acknowledge our own powerlessness and our willingness to let go of the shortcomings that hinder our personal growth and recovery.

The precise process of Step Seven may vary among us, but it often involves deep introspection, identifying specific character flaws, and sincerely seeking guidance and support from our higher power, whether through prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing our shortcomings as an ongoing process throughout the recovery journey.

It’s worth noting that the interpretation of a higher power can vary among us. Some may view it as a traditional religious deity, while others may consider it a universal energy, the collective wisdom of the group, or simply a guiding principle or force outside of oneself. Ultimately, Step Seven aims to cultivate humility, surrender, and openness to personal growth, enabling us to continue our journey toward recovery and spiritual development.