The third step in recovery is to “make a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood him,” meaning this is often the stage at which an individual accepts spirituality into the process of Recovery. This third step can be a very big step for many people, and involves the recital of the Third Step Prayer.
The 3rd Step Prayer
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! Amen.
What Does the Third Step Prayer Mean?
This prayer is a declaration that an individual is releasing control to God, is no longer in control personally, and no longer a victim of surrounding situations - God has a plan, and we are allowing Him to do His will in our lives. At this stage, using this prayer, a person in recovery is transitioning from their own will to God’s will; this prayer signifies that release. Additionally, the last line of the prayer is very important for recovery: “take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help…” This line points out that any struggles or conflicts that a person in recovery goes through is no longer in vain - a person’s conflicts and trials are simply one additional way that they can help others.
Gifts for the Third Step of Recovery
At Pass it On Recovery Shop, we carry a few items to celebrate the third step in recovery and to serve as a reminder of the 3rd Step Prayer.
- 3rd Step Prayer Recovery Pen
- 3rd Step Prayer Bookmark
- Customized Engraved Plaque (Personalized with laser engraving
- 3rd Step Prayer Journal
The 3rd Step Prayer can have a uniquely special meaning to those in recovery, as it often marks the first time an individual has accepted God into their lives. There are other prayers for the other 12 Steps of Recovery, but none seem to carry quite the same weight that the Third Step Prayer does.