Understanding Spiritual Warfare in Recovery
In a recent article, I explored the thought that comes before the first drink. Our thoughts shape our actions. Therefore, recovery asks us to examine what we believe, desire, and surrender to. Many people in recovery view this inner conflict as spiritual warfare. In other words, the battle against alcohol can point to a deeper struggle. Spiritual darkness often tries to pull us away from God, honesty, and sobriety.
Scripture reminds us of this reality: “For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against rulers, against authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” — Ephesians 6:12.
Some people in recovery struggle with the idea of an evil force, a devil, or a “power of present darkness.” However, many of us believe in a power greater than ourselves. We have chosen to turn our will and our lives over to God’s care. If we accept that God restores us, we must also recognize another truth. Alcohol can enslave us and lead us into a powerless state of darkness. This contrast shows why spiritual recovery matters so deeply.
Many recovering alcoholics experience emotional highs and lows that can trigger old behaviors. When we stop practicing a spiritual program, we may lose clarity, wrestle with our conscience, and feel divided within ourselves. As a result, the inner battle grows stronger.
The Bedevilments
The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous describes untreated alcoholism on page 52 through the “bedevilments”: misery, depression, uselessness, and damaged relationships. These struggles often grow from fear, dishonesty, and spiritual disconnection. Recovery calls us to face more than drinking—it asks us to confront the spiritual maladies that keep us trapped.
If you believe you are caught in spiritual warfare and the internal battle feels overwhelming, hold on to this powerful truth: God loved you first. His love existed before your struggle, before your addiction, and before your recovery began.
Because He knows you completely, He can guide you with a love deeper than anything you can create on your own.
“We love because He first loved us.”- 1 John 4:19
Each day of sobriety offers evidence of God’s active work in your life. Through grace, He softens your heart, strengthens your spirit, and reminds you that His presence remains with you in every season of recovery.
The Value of Spiritual Struggle in Sobriety
Spiritual struggle often reveals that something valuable is at stake: your soul, your sobriety, and your relationship with God. As you move closer to Him, the path may become narrower and more focused. Yet this struggle does not mean God has left you. Instead, He may be drawing you into deeper dependence, greater honesty, and stronger faith. His love does not rise and fall with your performance. It remains steady, even in the middle of the battle.
Finding God’s Strength Through Suffering
When God’s love fills our lives, suffering can become a path to deeper connection. Through pain, we begin to identify with Christ, who suffered to redeem us. Likewise, we connect with others in AA through shared honesty, past wounds, present struggles, and transparent fellowship.
Challenges and pain push us to seek God’s strength. As we rely on Him, we discover His love in ways comfort alone could never teach us. This process brings us closer to God and strengthens our bond with others who walk the same road of recovery.
Relying on God’s Love for Lasting Sobriety
When a sponsee calls while struggling, I feel grateful because that call shows willingness, honesty, and spiritual awareness. The battle may feel heavy, but God can bring victory through patience, surrender, and continued reliance on Him. Over time, pain teaches us to depend less on ourselves and more on God’s unconditional love.
Reflection: Where do I see spiritual warfare showing up in my recovery today, and how can I turn that struggle over to the care of God with trust?