Devotional from the Life Recovery Bible
None of us set out to become addicted to something. We were seeking something else—escape from pain, perhaps, or something to make up for our losses and brokenness—or maybe we had a subconscious desire for self-destruction.
Unfortunately, the things we turned to could not satisfy our deepest
needs or desires. Our needs are legitimate. What must be changed is the tendency to go the wrong way to try to meet those needs. The Bible says, “My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble” (Proverbs 3:21-23).
Godly wisdom leads to great benefits in life. As we seek wisdom, we will find the other things we desire. “Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying” (Proverbs 3:13-17).
As we change our focus and begin to seek after wisdom, we will find our lives more fulfilled and secure. Godly wisdom will also help us avoid the destructive paths we have previously taken as we tried to fulfill our unmet needs and desires.
What does the cross at the end of reverse mean, that symbol?
Some NLT Bibles include a concise cross-reference system that places key cross-references at the end of many of the paragraphs. These cross-references are linked to the associated verse or verses within the paragraph with a cross symbol. When you find a cross symbol in the running text of these Bibles, you should expect to see a reference at the end of the paragraph. These end-of-paragraph references will point you to a related Bible passage somewhere else.