In the world of recovery, many people find guidance, peace, and strength in specific prayers that connect them with their inner selves and a Higher Power. Among these prayers, the Set Aside Prayer AA holds a special place. Used by individuals in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs, the Set Aside Prayer AA is a way to release preconceived notions, open up to new experiences, and embrace the power of humility. This prayer is often used by those beginning or continuing their journey of sobriety, offering a sense of renewal and openness to learning.
While it may not be as widely known as the Serenity Prayer, the Set Aside Prayer has a unique impact on those who practice it. It’s not just a prayer; it’s a commitment to self-improvement and growth. The Set Aside Prayer AA encourages people to embrace a mindset of open-mindedness, surrender, and transformation.
What is the Set Aside Prayer AA?
The Set Aside Prayer AA is a simple yet profound prayer that asks for help in setting aside one’s existing beliefs, opinions, and ideas. These beliefs may be about oneself, one’s addiction, or spirituality, and by setting them aside, individuals can make room for a new perspective and a deeper understanding. This prayer isn’t meant to replace one’s values but to allow for an honest, fresh look at recovery.
The traditional form of the Set Aside Prayer AA is as follows:
“Dear God, please help me set aside everything I think I know about myself, my disease, the 12 Steps, and especially about you, so I may have an open mind and a new experience with all these things. Please help me to see the truth.”
This prayer is deeply personal and resonates differently with each individual. Its core message is about creating space for growth, openness, and humility. The Set Aside Prayer speaks to the heart of those seeking healing, especially those who feel weighed down by assumptions or skepticism.
Why the Prayer AA is Essential in Recovery
The Set Aside Prayer AA is valued in the recovery community because it asks individuals to suspend judgment, be receptive to new ideas, and release expectations. Many people in recovery initially try to control the process with intellect or willpower, which often leads to frustration and setbacks. The prayer emphasizes the importance of letting go of this need for control, allowing for a more authentic and open approach to sobriety.
A key reason why the Set Aside Prayer is essential is that it supports humility. When someone says this prayer, they acknowledge that they don’t have all the answers. For many in AA, this is a humbling realization, especially for those who once felt that they could control their addiction through sheer determination. The Set Aside Prayer is a reminder that recovery requires surrender, patience, and willingness to change.
| Aspect | Benefit of the Set Aside Prayer AA |
|---|---|
| Humility | Encourages acceptance and willingness to learn |
| Open Mind | Promotes growth and new perspectives |
| Higher Power Connection | Supports spirituality without restriction |
| Letting Go | Provides peace and serenity |
| Continued Growth | Useful for all stages of recovery |
Read more: Daily-devotional humility the antidote to pride
Role of Humility in the Set Aside Prayer AA
In recovery, humility is one of the most valuable qualities. By practicing the Set Aside Prayer AA, individuals admit they don’t have all the answers. They are open to the wisdom of others and are willing to learn from those who have walked this path before. This humility is not about weakness but strength, as it helps people recognize the need for support.
The Set Aside Prayer is not about disregarding knowledge but about understanding that recovery is an ongoing process. This is especially significant for those who rely on intellectual knowledge. Many who start their journey with intellectual pride soon realize that humility and openness can be more helpful in their recovery.
Openness to a New Perspective
The Set Aside Prayer AA encourages people to keep an open mind, a key ingredient in personal growth. Recovery often requires unlearning old habits and embracing new ways of thinking. With an open mind, individuals can accept guidance, even if it challenges their preconceived ideas. This openness helps them view recovery as a journey rather than a destination, which is essential for long-term success.
In recovery, it’s easy to feel stuck or frustrated when things don’t go as expected. The Set Aside Prayer reminds people that their current understanding might be limited and that they can benefit from new experiences. This openness can also apply to relationships, spiritual practices, and self-reflection.
Developing a Personal Connection with a Higher Power
For those in Alcoholics Anonymous and similar programs, connecting with a Higher Power is an essential part of recovery. However, some people struggle with this concept, especially if they have had negative experiences with religion in the past. The Set Aside Prayer AA allows individuals to approach spirituality in a way that is meaningful to them.
The Higher Power mentioned in the Set Aside Prayer doesn’t need to align with any specific religious belief. It can be anything that gives strength, peace, or a sense of guidance. For some, it may be the support group itself, nature, or an inner sense of peace. By keeping an open mind about spirituality, the Set Aside Prayer helps people find their unique spiritual path in recovery.
Letting Go and Finding Peace
One of the most powerful aspects of the Set Aside Prayer AA is its message of letting go. Addiction often involves a need for control, and letting go is a crucial step in breaking that cycle. By setting aside their beliefs, people in recovery learn to accept what they cannot control. This acceptance is a source of peace, as it frees them from the mental struggle of trying to manage every aspect of their lives.
The Set Aside Prayer promotes serenity by helping individuals let go of attachments and expectations. When one can release the need to control or fix everything, there is a newfound calm and clarity. This peace is an essential part of recovery and allows individuals to focus on what they can change.
How the Prayer AA Supports Long-Term Sobriety
The Set Aside Prayer isn’t only for newcomers; it’s beneficial for anyone in recovery, no matter how long they have been sober. Sobriety is a lifelong journey, and even those with years of experience can benefit from the reminders in the Set Aside Prayer AA. Recovery requires continual growth and learning, and the prayer reinforces this mindset.
By returning to this prayer, individuals can refresh their commitment to sobriety, approach challenges with a clear mind, and stay focused on their goals. The prayer’s emphasis on humility, openness, and connection to a Higher Power makes it a timeless tool for anyone seeking peace and strength in their journey.
Read more: Daily devotional finding success when you least expect it
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Set Aside Prayer AA?
The Set Aside Prayer AA is a prayer in Alcoholics Anonymous that helps people let go of preconceived beliefs and stay open to new experiences in recovery.
Why is humility important in the Set Aside Prayer?
Humility is key to understanding that one doesn’t have all the answers, fostering an openness to learn and grow in recovery.
Can I use the Set Aside Prayer without being in AA?
Yes, anyone can use this prayer as a way to cultivate humility, openness, and peace in their life, whether or not they are in AA.
How does the Set Aside Prayer help with spirituality?
The prayer allows people to connect with a Higher Power in a personal way, encouraging a unique and flexible approach to spirituality.
Conclusion
The Set Aside Prayer AA is a valuable tool for anyone in recovery, promoting humility, peace, and openness. It offers a path to self-discovery, helping individuals let go of old beliefs and embrace new perspectives. By using this prayer, people find strength and clarity in their recovery journey, reinforcing their commitment to sobriety. The Set Aside Prayer is a testament to the power of humility and willingness to change, qualities that are essential for a successful recovery journey.
Whether you are new to recovery or have been sober for years, the Set Aside Prayer AA offers guidance, support, and a reminder of the transformative power of openness.