The Book is a result of my struggling to get ahold of what the Twelve Steps offer. Where is the power coming from? Is there power in certain steps…or is it only by practicing abstinence somehow that brings healing and happiness? This book was written because I was granted freedom in certain contexts by my Higher Power. The Steps I grew to focus on with healthy understanding helped me go further in my walk in this the Valley of shadow of death.
Though his writing can be abstract at times, Lafaut consistently circles back to the importance of a close dependence on God in order to break free from addiction, and much of his text focuses on the need for forgiveness of self and others. He breaks down challenging concepts by sharing his own experiences and emphasizing the spiritual roots behind addictive behaviors—including unresolved anger, pride, and guilt—and Christian readers will appreciate his first hand approach to overcoming addiction. Particularly helpful are the suggested prayer outlines Lafaut includes and his attention to dismantling confusing religious terms.
Christian readers struggling with addiction will find plenty to think about, and Lafaut dedicates ample space to summarizing his own spiritual explanation of each of the 12 Steps (some steps he spends more time on than others, including step nine, when he explores how to make amends “with God’s help”). For those who are unfamiliar with the 12 Step Program, Lafaut lists every step in its original form and offers additional resources in the backmatter. His unconditional regard for readers will be a welcome approach, and his caution against judging others is refreshing—as is his encouragement that “Overcoming all our challenges doesn’t happen overnight.”
Takeaway: A spiritual interpretation of the 12 Step model for addiction recovery.
Great for fans of: G. Sharpe’s God & the 12 Steps; Friends in Recovery’s The Twelve Steps for Christians.
Production grades
Cover: B-
Design and typography: B-
Illustrations: NA
Editing: C
Marketing copy: C
