Mess it Up Show 439 - ConscientiousMess it Up Show 439 - Conscientious
Mess It Up Podcast
The Bow Tie Guy discusses the concept that recove…
33:15•2 Sept 2026
Conscientious Recovery: Commitment, Obedience and Real-Life Messes
Episode Overview
- Recovery progress is closely linked to the level of obedience and commitment a person brings to it.
- Directing obedience towards a higher power, rather than personal desires, can lead towards freedom instead of bondage.
- Following the 12 steps in the right order helps make amends and growth more complete and effective.
- Humility, accountability and a willingness to be taught are essential for lasting change in recovery.
- Staying committed to recovery means making amends quickly when mistakes happen, rather than abandoning the process.
“I really believe that recovery happens at the speed of obedience and commitment.”
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? Mess It Up Show 439, titled "Conscientious", circles around a bold idea from the Bow Tie Guy: "I really believe that recovery happens at the speed of obedience and commitment." You'll hear Roland (aka the Bow Tie Guy) break down what being conscientious in recovery actually means – doing things carefully and on purpose, rather than just going with feelings or whims.
He talks about how, before recovery, his "I want" muscle was very well trained, obeying his own desires rather than a higher power, and how shifting that obedience towards Jesus Christ changed the outcome of his life and ministry. This episode is aimed at people in recovery, especially those involved with Celebrate Recovery or faith-based programmes, and anyone who feels stuck because they’re half‑in, half‑out with their commitment.
Roland uses everyday stories – his grandchild reaching for chicken and a phone, a complex Lego kit, a tense moment in a busy shop queue – to show how order, humility and quick amends shape healthier choices. He stresses that obedience isn’t about mood; it’s about showing up even when you don’t feel like it.
Accountability, sponsors, and honest feedback (including a hard truth from a man in prison who said Roland sounded like a know‑it‑all) all feature as practical tools to stay teachable. He also links obedience to serving others, listening more than speaking, and using step 10 to clean up mistakes swiftly.
The tone is warm, honest and slightly humorous, with a strong faith thread and a clear message: commitment and obedience aren’t abstract ideas, they’re daily actions that influence how fast recovery moves. If you’re wondering why your recovery feels stuck in first gear, this episode might prompt you to ask: how committed and obedient am I really prepared to be?
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