How Two Words Can Change Your Life

How Two Words Can Change Your Life

What can we learn from those who have battled addiction? This faith-centred episode of The Hope Recovery Podcast focuses on just two short words that can completely shift how someone in recovery sees their life: "But God." Aimed at people dealing with alcohol or drug addiction, as well as anyone feeling stuck in any struggle, the message keeps circling back to the same anchor – that God is active, present, and still changing outcomes.

Host Greg Schmalhofer walks through Bible passages that describe a "terrible, sinful condition" where it looks like there’s no escape. Then he highlights what he calls "the two most powerful words in the bible, but God." As he shares, "But God, being rich in mercy... even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ." It’s a simple idea, but the way it’s applied to day-to-day recovery makes it especially relatable.

You’ll hear prompts to look back on your own "but God" moments – those times when it seemed all was lost, a relapse felt inevitable, or a medical crisis looked final, yet something changed unexpectedly. Greg encourages people to remember when "God intervenes in amazing ways" as fuel for ongoing sobriety and faith. Rather than heavy theology, the tone stays practical and encouraging, aimed at anyone who feels overwhelmed by addiction, shame, or fear.

The focus is on mercy, grace, and the possibility of a fresh start, even after repeated failures. It’s particularly suited to those who see God as their Higher Power, or who are curious about how Christian faith fits with recovery. By the end, you’re left with a clear challenge: where might there be a "but God" in your own story, and who could be helped by hearing it?