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What happened to the person you used to be—the one who set goals, dreamed big, and believed they were made for more? In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann Forte explores Core Concept 10: Finding Purpose—the pivotal moment when we begin to replace destructive habits with meaningful pursuits.

This isn't about giving something up—it's about stepping into who God created you to be.

Drawing from Scripture and real-life reflection, Rose Ann shares how purpose gets lost when we're numbing pain, and how we can reclaim it—one step at a time.

Understanding Purpose Loss

• How substances and toxic behaviors cloud our sense of purpose and God-given gifts
• The disconnection from who we were created to be
• Moving from goal-oriented confidence to feeling lost and frustrated

The Lies We Believe

• Impact of unrealistic standards and comparison culture
• Pressure to fit in rather than embrace our unique design
• How pain and coping mechanisms (like drinking) deepen the disconnection from purpose

Biblical Foundation Three key scriptures discussed:

• Jeremiah 29:11 - God's plans to prosper and give hope
• Ephesians 2:10 - Created for good works prepared in advance
• Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the renewing of your mind

This week, take time to reflect on the person you used to be and the dreams you've set aside. Ask yourself: "What did I use to love doing? What have I always wanted to try?" Whether it's picking up a musical instrument, exploring a career change through community college courses, or rediscovering hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, or sports—start small but start somewhere. For parents, consider how you can be more present with your children and what lasting memories or values you want to instill in them. Remember, finding purpose isn't about grand gestures or immediate transformation; it's about following the instincts of who you were created to be and trusting that God will use these joy-filled pursuits in His kingdom. The key is to replace what you're removing with something that brings genuine fulfillment and aligns with your unique design.

In the next episode, we'll dive into Core Concept 11: It's Addictive, where we'll explore the nature of addictive substances and behaviors and how understanding this reality can strengthen your resolve to stay free. Before then, if this podcast is serving you on your journey, please take a moment to like, rate, or review it on your favorite platform—your feedback helps others discover these life-changing concepts. Know someone who's stuck in a pattern they desperately want to break free from? Share this episode with them; sometimes one small act of encouragement can be the catalyst for transformation. And if you've read "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises," leaving an honest review (even just one or two sentences) can help guide others toward their path to freedom. Remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone—the Choose Freedom Program has licensed professionals ready to support you in any area where you feel stuck. Blessings until next time!

Practical Application

• It's never too late (Rose Anne quit drinking at 60)
• God never removes His call on our lives until our last breath
• Replace toxic habits with dreams, visions, and joyful pursuits
• Examples: learning an instrument, career change, community college courses, hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, bowling, or golfing
• For parents: finding purpose in raising godly children

The Shift in Perspective

• It's not about stopping the behavior through willpower
• It's about turning away from destruction and toward your God-given gifts
• Focus on what brings joy and what you were created to do

Action Steps

• Reflect on "I used to be so..." statements
• Identify dreams or activities you've always wanted to pursue
• Start doing something that brings you joy
• Don't pursue this journey alone - seek support

Resources Mentioned

• Choose Freedom Program with licensed professionals - https://choosefreedom.today/directory/
• Book: "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises" - https://choosefreedom.today/books/

#FromNumbToPurpose #ChooseFreedom #FaithBasedRecovery #ChristianSobriety #FindingPurpose