Finding Our Way Back: Three Dynamics of Christian Recovery

By Charles Determan Sr.

This book is about fostering an examination of the individual and their inner self and how this examination can change the way they live their daily life. Oftentimes, people in recovery can be overwhelmed by a world that seems to have jettisoned God long ago yet gives no real alternative to find meaning and purpose. By using the book of Romans we can identify three dynamics of recovery which can allow us to see how the message of Romans still resounds today. When we realize our closeness to God and allow ourselves to join the process of our own transformation we can begin to celebrate the simple joy that is found in a heart full of grace.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Aug 6, 2018
• ISBN: 9781973635154

Charles Determan Sr.

Charles Determan Sr. is an independent Christian Philosopher and graduate of Marquette University. B.A. Psychology. Married to Jennie and has three children and 4 grandchildren. Presently works in the manufacturing sector and is active in his church and recovery community and has recently completed one year of study at John Calvin Theological Seminary with an emphasis on Pastoral Care. For an expanded and in depth explanation of the theological and philosophical underpinnings of Christian Dynamics of Recovery please read Finding Our Way Home.

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Copyright © 2018 Charles Determan Sr..

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ISBN: 978-1-9736-3516-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-9736-3515-4 (e)

WestBow Press rev. date: 08/03/2018

Contents

Preface

Introduction

1 Dynamic One – Distance vs Closeness

2 Dynamic Two – Stagnation vs Process

3 Dynamic Three – Complexity vs Simplicity

4 A Spiritual Exercise of Mind

Conclusion

Endnotes

Dedication

To all those individuals in recovery who realize or are coming to realize that in as much as recovery is a recovery from something it is also a recovery of something. What was lost has now been found. Let us keep this truth close as we help ourselves by helping others.

Preface

A s I reflected on my reasons for wanting to write this book I have often been haunted by a question, What do I have to say that has not been already said about Recovery? My answer is that my experience in recovery has allowed me to recognize how difficult the process of recovery has been and is becoming especially for those who sense a connection with a power greater than themselves but who are intimidated by a world which seems to have jettisoned God long ago. It is important to admit that this intimidation has roots because of certain shifts that have occurred in the background of belief as our global society has moved forward into modernity. As far as this book goes I have no interest in delving into the complex theories surrounding the rise of secularity but I do want to talk about that which is present in spite of it. There is a presence ( a dynamic living presence ) that always militates against the human tendency to find meaning that rests in the mind alone.

We must also admit; although, that reason is an amazing tool which helps to make the world an efficient and productive place but it also can at times be found wanting. This whole situation is played out as one scientist wars against another, as one hypothesis is thrown upon the rocky shore of invalid data and another is championed as the best possible conclusion. An example of this would be the mammoth pharmaceutical world in which drugs (that claim to cure