[Gmoney]

The 3rd Step requires us to practice willingness, open-mindedness, and surrender. We need to use the same open-mindedness we developed in the previous step (Step Two), and build upon our newfound faith that the same Power that can restore us to sanity, can also care for our lives. Our willingness is expressed through the decision we make, and surrender is practiced when we allow our Higher Power to guide us (instead of trying to dictate outcomes). It is through the practice of these principles that we work the Third Step. Very often, we will summarize the Third Step by simply saying, “Let go and let God.”

That slogan is easy to say, but harder to live by. The problem of will (self-will or God’s will) is going to constantly be a difficult matter for many of us because it usually isn’t until we have experienced enough confusion and emotional pain, exhausting all attempts to fix ourselves (and others), that we become willing to surrender to whatever God’s will is for our lives.

When we make the personal decision to allow a loving Higher Power to direct us (especially if we are thorough and sincere), that direction generally reveals itself in the inner wisdom we call our conscience. Our values and standards begin to change when we follow our Higher Power’s guidance. The results of decisions based on pride, ego and self-will are often pain, confusion, fear, guilt or anger. The results of following our inner wisdom are peace, joy, serenity and contentment. The more we practice “letting go” and “turning it over,” the better we’re able to feel what God’s will is for us. We learn to trust our gut.

We can always “turn it over” again and again, if we struggle. The proof of this step is shown in the way we live.