Video 12B: A Recovery Rule of Life and Support Plan

Hi, I am Haley Steiner, a CLI presenter.

This course is taught by Rev. Henry Reyenga and Attorney/Pastor Brian DeCook.

In this video, we are focusing on a Recovery Rule of Life and a support plan.

A rule of life is a simple rhythm that helps you live faithfully. It is not a punishment. It is not a rigid performance system. It is not a way to prove that you are healed.

A Recovery Rule of Life is a realistic ninety-day plan for continuing growth after this course. It brings together prayer, rest, health, responsibilities, boundaries, community, purpose, support, and review.

Think of it as a trellis. A trellis does not make a plant alive. But it gives structure for growth. In the same way, your Recovery Rule of Life does not create grace. Grace comes from God. But a wise rhythm can help you remain connected to Christ and supported in daily life.

Your rule of life may include a short prayer practice, a weekly worship rhythm, a sleep or body-care habit, a boundary with communication, a practical task rhythm, a support contact, a pastoral or counseling follow-up, and a monthly review.

It should be specific enough to guide you and gentle enough to actually live.

For example, instead of saying, “I will become spiritually strong,” you might write, “I will pray Psalm 23 three mornings each week.”

Instead of saying, “I will fix my whole life,” you might write, “Each Monday evening, I will review one practical task and one support need.”

Instead of saying, “I will never feel lonely,” you might write, “When loneliness feels strong, I will contact one trusted person or use my support plan before making a major relationship decision.”

Support is part of the plan. Galatians 6 teaches that we bear one another’s burdens, and also that each person carries their own responsibility. A good support plan honors both truths.

Your support plan may include a pastor, minister, chaplain, life coach, counselor, attorney, doctor, financial professional, trusted friend, support group, or church community. Different helpers serve different roles. No one person should have to carry everything.

Your plan should also name warning signs. When should you seek more help? If grief becomes overwhelming, if safety concerns appear, if legal or financial crises intensify, if substance use becomes dangerous, if self-harm thoughts appear, if children are at risk, or if isolation deepens, do not wait. Seek appropriate help.

Revelation 21 says, “Behold, I am making all things new.” God’s new work is not always instant. Sometimes it grows through faithful rhythms over time.

Reflection question: What practice, person, or boundary would help sustain your next ninety days?

Gentle next step: Choose one prayer rhythm, one support contact, and one review time for your ninety-day Recovery Rule of Life.


Last modified: Monday, June 22, 2026, 6:36 PM