In the journey toward healing from addiction, the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous offer a time-tested spiritual path. Central to this journey is the Third Step Prayer—a heartfelt petition to surrender control and align one’s life with the will of a Higher Power. For Christians, this prayer resonates as a profound call to trust in the Holy Spirit and submit to the love and direction of our Heavenly Father.
This article explores the Third Step Prayer, its alignment with biblical values, and how incorporating it into daily practice can bring peace, clarity, and freedom in the recovery process.
Understanding the Third Step Prayer
The Third Step of Alcoholics Anonymous reads:
“Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.”
It is often considered one of the most pivotal points in recovery—a full surrender of self will and ego. The corresponding Third Step Prayer is frequently repeated by those in recovery:
“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!”
This step prayer acknowledges that self will, pride, and wishful thinking have only led to suffering. By turning to God, individuals seek not only strength, but transformation—rooted in love, service, and humility.
The Christian Message in the Third Step Prayer
From a Christian perspective, the 3rd Step Prayer aligns beautifully with Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. It reflects the core message of surrender, trust, and redemption:
“God, I offer myself to Thee…” echoes Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to present themselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.
“Relieve me of the bondage of self…” resonates with Romans 7:24-25, where Paul cries out for deliverance from sin and selfishness.
“Take away my difficulties…” reflects the Christian belief in relying on divine strength, as stated in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
“That victory may bear witness…” speaks to our call in Matthew 5:16 to shine our light so others may see our good works and glorify God.
“Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life…” reminds us that we are part of God’s eternal purpose, made possible by Christ’s sacrifice and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
How to Integrate the Third Step Prayer into Christian Recovery
The Third Step Prayer is more than words—it’s a way of life. Here are ways to bring its themes into your daily life:
1. Begin Each Day with the Prayer
Starting your day by saying the third step prayer can help shift your mindset from control to surrender. Make it part of your morning routine or devotions.
2. Pair the Prayer with Scripture
Connect the prayer’s themes to Bible passages that focus on surrender, strength, and trust in God’s holy will. Let the Word deepen your spiritual understanding.
3. Journal the Journey
Reflect on how the prayer influences your behavior and outlook. Write about how God is building you, shaping you, and helping you let go of what no longer serves Him.
4. Serve Others in God’s Name
Just as the prayer asks that your victories bear witness, serve others in your community or church. Let your transformation be a living testimony to Thy Power and Thy Love.
5. Join Prayer and Support Groups
Engage with fellow believers who understand both the Twelve Steps and the walk of faith. Discuss the Third Step Prayer, Seventh Step Prayer, and the journey toward eternal life.
How LINKS Helps Bring the Third Step Prayer to Life
At LINKS, the Christian Tract of Northbound Treatment Network, we believe that true healing happens when faith and recovery come together. We help men and women surrender their lives to God and walk in Thy Way—with clinical excellence and Christ-centered compassion.
Here’s how LINKS supports your journey:
Faith-Based Clinical Care: We integrate Biblical values and spiritual principles into evidence-based addiction treatment.
Guided Prayer Practices: From the Third Step Prayer to custom devotionals, we help clients strengthen their relationship with God.
Spiritual Mentorship: Our staff walks with clients through the Twelve Steps, showing how each step prayer supports faith and healing.
Christ-Centered Community: Group sessions, Bible studies, and chapel services foster fellowship and transformation.
Support for Mental Health: We treat addiction and mental health challenges together, helping clients find peace through both Scripture and therapy.
At LINKS, we know the power of faith to break chains, heal wounds, and restore hope. We guide each client to make a decision to follow God’s will and release the grip of self will for good.
Final Thoughts: Let This Prayer Be Your Breakthrough
If you’re feeling stuck, afraid, or overwhelmed, start with this:
“Dear God, take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life.”
Recovery doesn’t begin when you figure everything out—it begins when you surrender. Let the Third Step Prayer become your anchor, your compass, and your daily conversation with God.
Ready to start your journey of Christ-centered healing?
Contact LINKS today to learn how we can support your recovery through faith, compassion, and community.
