For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭10

Tiptoeing around the issue gets us nowhere but frustrated. Upon arrival in the realm of recovery, it’s a good idea to grab hold of some good grief.

Accidental placement in recovery is uncommon. We get here with good cause. Running just ahead of consequences, we tire, we get sloppy, we concede.

Often I hear self-help ideas suggesting that I take it easy on myself, that I cut myself some slack. And for those receiving professional advice to do so, by all means, don’t throw out the help you’re receiving. But it was important for me to latch on to a healthy amount of good grief.

There was plenty for me to reflect on and regret when I finally hung my head and started trying to straighten things out. Much has been written about the pitfalls of morbid reflection, but grief is good when it motivates change.

I ought not wallow in self-pity. But I better stay in a position of eager willingness to repair and change for the better.

Self-pity will lead me back to the beginning because it’s fueled by a desire to be coddled and understood.

Godly grief will lead me forward into unknown waters because it’s fueled by the longing to be free and understand.

Am I always motivated by the purity of these ideals? No. But my livelihood depends on my willingness to course correct when drifting from faith into pity.

How is my grief guiding me today?

God, instruct my heart with good grief.