Dr. Floyd Godfrey

Self-Awareness Through Reflection

Developing self-awareness is vital for recovery from sexual addiction, as it fosters a deeper understanding of one’s thoughts, behaviors, and spiritual condition. Patrick Carnes emphasizes that self-awareness is not accidental but requires intentional practices. “In order for that to happen, you must use ways of reflecting on your recovery work. Readings, meditations, journaling, Step-Work—whatever you do, you must have sources of personal reflection built into your life” (Carnes, 2015, p. 171). Incorporating these reflective habits into daily life creates opportunities for spiritual and emotional growth, enabling individuals to identify triggers, address unhelpful thought patterns, and align their actions with their values.

The Bible also calls believers to examine themselves regularly: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts” (Psalm 139:23, NIV). Like King David’s prayer, self-reflection in recovery invites God's wisdom to shine a light on areas needing healing, leading to transformation.

The Need for Regular Reflection

In recovery, setting aside regular time for introspection is crucial. Carnes reminds readers, “Further, there must be regular periods of down time to do the reflecting” (2015, p. 171). These scheduled pauses allow individuals to step back from daily stresses and focus on their inner world. Carnes refers to these moments as “windows of time” that are “incredibly important to your ability to sort out” (2015, p. 171). Whether through prayer, journaling, or quiet walks, these practices can help individuals organize their thoughts, clarify goals, and discern God’s direction for their lives.

Christian counselors often encourage incorporating Sabbath principles into recovery. Observing rhythms of rest not only honors God’s design but also gives the mind and body the space needed for reflection and renewal.

Living Within Rhythms of Grace

Carnes highlights the importance of respecting natural limits in the recovery journey. He writes, “There is an essential rhythm to life you have to observe that is part of accepting your human limits” (2015, p. 171). These rhythms can include balancing work and rest, incorporating daily devotions, and establishing consistent times for recovery activities. Accepting one’s humanity is foundational in the Christian faith. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV). Recovery involves relying on God’s strength rather than attempting to overcome addiction through sheer willpower alone.

By honoring these rhythms and seeking God's guidance, individuals can find stability, resilience, and peace even amidst the challenges of recovery. Such practices ground their journey in the truth that healing is a process, not a one-time event.

Encouragement for Recovery

Self-awareness is not just a tool but a spiritual discipline in sexual addiction recovery. By building reflective practices into daily routines, scheduling time for introspection, and honoring life’s rhythms, individuals can create space for God’s healing work. These intentional efforts support the long-term goal of living a life of integrity and freedom.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed clinician for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.

References
Carnes, P. (2015). Facing the Shadow: Starting Sexual and Relationship Recovery (3rd ed.). Gentle Path Press.Top of Form