Grace Rediscovered: Faith and Recovery Insights
Episode Overview
Rev. Dr. Ben Gosden shares his journey from alcoholism to sobriety. The role of the 12-step program in reigniting faith. Insights from the book 'Grace Rediscovered'. Exploration of spirituality and personal growth. Importance of sharing recovery stories.
The longest distance sometimes is the 12 inches from your head to your heart.
In this engaging episode of the Soberful podcast, Rev. Dr. Ben Gosden joins host Veronica to discuss his transformative journey from alcoholism to a renewed sense of faith and spirituality. Ben, a pastor who struggled with secret drinking, candidly shares how the 12-step program helped reignite his faith and reshape his life. His book, 'Grace Rediscovered', delves into this journey, offering insights into the intersection of recovery and spirituality.
Ben explains that the book was written two and a half years into his sobriety, marking a cathartic experience that allowed him to share his story. He emphasizes the importance of sharing recovery stories as part of the healing process. Despite coming from a Christian perspective, Ben assures listeners that the themes explored in his book are universal, applicable to individuals across various spiritual and religious traditions.
Central to his narrative are the first three steps of the 12-step program, which he believes laid the foundation for his recovery. He also touches on broader topics such as forgiveness, prayer, and making amends, which are integral to the recovery process. Ben's personal anecdotes reveal the struggles of self-medication, perfectionism, and the desire to keep secrets, all contributing to his alcoholism. Throughout the episode, listeners are offered a glimpse into the spiritual truths that have sustained Ben's recovery journey.
He references the influence of works like Emmett Fox's 'The Sermon on the Mount' and insights from Richard Rohr, highlighting the spiritual contributions of the 12-step program. Ben remains active on social media and offers coaching services, encouraging those interested in his work to connect with him online. His book, 'Grace Rediscovered', provides hope and healing through the integration of faith and recovery, a message that resonates deeply with those on similar paths.
This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the possibilities for healing and growth when one confronts their struggles with honesty and openness. As Ben shares his story, he offers hope to others navigating the complexities of addiction and recovery.