Recovering from an addiction is one of the more difficult journeys in life. There are days that seem ok. Others feel it is impossible. But when those voices of giving up grow louder than those of going on, many people in recovery wish there was more to them than willpower.
That’s why we pray. Not for religious reasons, but as a practical, day-to-day resource to help you stay grounded, to help refocus your thinking, and to help you find a greater purpose than the challenge in front of you.
This was clearly understood years ago by Alcoholics Anonymous. That is why prayer is an integral part of the 12-step program, and why the 3rd Step Prayer is so special and significant.
In this article, you will learn what the 3rd Step Prayer is, its origins, its line-by-line meaning, and its significance in the recovery process.
1. What Is The 3rd Step Prayer In AA
It’s important to understand what the prayer is and how it fits into the AA program before you can grasp its significance.
The 3rd step prayer AA is one of 12 prayers, each representing one of AA’s 12 steps. Such prayers are usually said at the opening and closing of each 12-step group meeting.
They are the backbone of the program and a daily guide for those who are striving to remain sober.
The actual wording of the 3rd Step Prayer is:
God, I offer myself to Thee, to build with me and do with me whatsoever Thou wilt.
To remove my difficulties that I may win them, to give me victory over my difficulties that they may bear witness to those to whom I might help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of Life.
2. The Origins of the 3rd Step Prayer
There is no one single origin for the 3rd Step Prayer. It was originally linked to Bill W. and Bob Smith of AA. No mention of the prayer is found in any of their writings, such as the cornerstone book of Alcoholics Anonymous.
The more plausible source is the businessman/businessman, AA member, and prolific author, Harold Hill. In his 1976 book How to Be a Winner, Hill quotes a prayer that is very similar to the 3rd Step Prayer.
Alcoholics Anonymous has inspired Hill to believe in the ability of a faith-based approach to change people’s lives, as he experienced firsthand. His writing called people to give up control and to live free from addictions.
In addition, the prayer was officially embraced by Alcoholics Anonymous in the 80s, and it was structured and introduced to the community in a way that made it the foundation of the organization as it is known today.
3. The Biblical and Spiritual Roots Behind the Prayer
The 3rd Step Prayer is rooted in a profound spiritual and scriptural tradition, and understanding of its origin enhances the reception of its message.
There are several Biblical influences in Harold Hill’s version of the prayer. Proverbs 3:5-6 suggests that people must trust God rather than rely on their own understanding. James 4:7 says that you must surrender your will and desires to a higher power. But in Philippians 4:13, it is written that anything that can be done can be done by faith.
In addition, the poem “I Surrender All,” written in the mid-19th century by Judson W. Van Deventer, is about total surrender, the same theme that is central to the prayer’s message.
4. What Each Line of the Prayer Actually Means
It becomes clear when deconstructed into the individual lines of the 3rd Step Prayer that it is a complex message with layers of depth and intentionality.
The first line, “God, I offer myself to Thee,” means that he gives himself completely. It’s recognizing our own limitations and also the need for, and the willingness to receive, help from God.
“To build with me and to do in me as Thou wilt” is an invitation for a higher power to enter into all aspects of life, not just the hard times. This is a promise of continuing collaboration, not temporary dependence.
Relieve me of the bondage of self,” acknowledges one of the most sincere facts of recovery: Self-obsession, self-anxiety, and self-ego can actually hinder healing. This line is about letting go of inner bonds.
Last, perhaps the most powerful statement is “Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help.” Rethinking personal struggle as being for a purpose.
Your journey to recovery isn’t just for you; it’s a beacon of hope for others still battling the same struggle.
5. Why the 3rd Step Prayer Matters in Daily Recovery
The 3rd Step Prayer is not just for meetings; it has many practical applications.
What AA has always known is supported by research. Research shows that sincere prayer can lead to a decrease in negative drinking behaviors and can positively help the treatment of AUD.
Prayer gives us a sense of purpose, it raises our spirits, and it helps to reduce the craving and unwanted thoughts in our mind that can make sobriety very difficult each day.
In addition, daily recitation of the 3rd Step Prayer helps foster a powerful daily ritual. It gets you into the right frame of mind for the day’s problems. It reminds you that it is not a journey you have to take by yourself — and that giving up is not a sign of weakness, but the way to become truly strong.
Further, the prayer itself gives an on-the-scene anchor during times of temptation. The prayer shifts the focus from the relapsing urge to purpose, community, and commitment — whenever it happens, and it will — the urge to relapse is no longer the focus.
Final Thoughts
The 3rd Step Prayer has helped so many people during their toughest times. Its roots are deep. It has a very clear message. Its daily practice provides tangible support to people who want to stay sober.
This prayer may be used again by a new member or by someone who has been in recovery for many years, and can help strengthen the backbone of your recovery.
Surrender is not giving up. It is the first step to get everything back.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
