RGV Road to Recovery IA
Freedom From Addiction
FREEDOM FROM ADDICTION
A 12-Step, Scripture-Integrated Recovery Curriculum
RGV Road to Recovery IA
AuThOR: STEvE EISENhAuER
Freedom From Addiction
A 12 Step Scripture Integrated Recovery Curriculum
Steve Eisenhauer
Second edition 2026
© 2026 SS Eisenhauer Enterprises LLC. Licensed for use by RGV Road to Recovery IA for
educational and program purposes. All other rights reserved.
For rights inquiries: info@sseisenhauer.com
Scripture acknowledgment
THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Public testimony accounts are paraphrased and attributed in the lessons. They are not endorsements of this book. Their source pages are listed where each account appears.
Disclaimer
This manual is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or psychiatric treatment. The information contained herein is intended for educational and spiritual support purposes only. Persons struggling with addiction, mental health conditions, or crisis situations should consult licensed healthcare professionals, certified addiction counselors, and/or emergency services. RGV Road to Recovery IA, its founders, facilitators, and volunteers do not provide medical or clinical advice.
Dedication
To every person seeking freedom, healing, and hope.
To the families who stand beside them.
And to the churches and communities who carry the message of restoration.
About RGV Road to Recovery IA
RGV Road to Recovery IA is a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to equipping individuals, families, and churches with practical, Scripture-rooted recovery tools. Our mission is to provide accessible, high-impact resources that blend spiritual wisdom with behavioral science, empowering people to walk in long-term freedom.
About This Curriculum
This textbook is designed as a 12-module recovery journey, integrating:
•
The 12 Steps
•
The 12 Traditions
•
Scripture reflections
•
Behavioral science insights
•
Practical tools for daily change
•
Assignments with writing space
•
Quizzes with answer keys in the appendix
•
Templates, worksheets, and planning tools
It can be used for:
•
Personal recovery
•
Small groups
•
Church classes
•
Mentorship and discipleship
•
Family support settings
How to Use This Book
Each module includes:
1. Lessons
Short, focused teachings with Scripture and practical insights.
2. Activities
Simple exercises to help you apply what you learn.
3. Assignments
Open-ended reflections with Option A (lines) or Option D (large writing space).
4. Quizzes
Multiple choice and true/false questions.
All answer keys are located in Appendix A.
5. Tools & Templates
Worksheets and planning pages appear throughout the book and in Appendix B.
Safety Notice
Recovery is a courageous journey. This curriculum is a self-help educational tool, not a replacement for:
• Professional counseling
• Medical treatment
• Crisis intervention
• Emergency services
If you are in danger, overwhelmed, or experiencing a crisis, seek immediate help from a trusted professional or emergency service.
Contents
Course Overview ................................ 12
Module List ................................ 13
Module 1 New Beginnings ................................ 14
Module 2 Faith That Restores ................................ 23
Module 3 Daily Surrender ................................ 32
Module 4 Honest Inventory ................................ 42
Module 5 Confession and Healing ................................ 51
Module 6 Willingness to Change ................................ 60
Contents continued
Module 7 Humble Asking ................................ 68
Module 8 Willingness and Forgiveness ................................ 76
Module 9 Making Amends ................................ 84
Module 10 Ongoing Inventory ................................ 92
Module 11 Prayer and Meditation ................................ 100
Module 12 Service and Carrying the Message ................................ 108
Appendix A Quiz Answer Keys ................................ 117
Appendix B Worksheets and Templates ................................ 121
Contents continued
Appendix C Safety Guidelines ................................ 135
Appendix D Facilitator Tools ................................ 140
Acknowledgments ................................ 144
About the Author ................................ 145
Course Overview
This curriculum follows the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, pairing each with:
• Scripture reflection
• Practical daily actions
• Emotional and spiritual tools
• Safety guidance
• Assignments and planning pages
Module List
1. New Beginnings (Step 1 / Tradition 1)
2. Faith That Restores (Step 2 / Tradition 2)
3. Daily Surrender (Step 3 / Tradition 3)
4. Honest Inventory (Step 4 / Tradition 4)
5. Confession and Healing (Step 5 / Tradition 5)
6. Willingness to Change (Step 6 / Tradition 6)
7. Humble Asking (Step 7 / Tradition 7)
8. Willingness and Forgiveness (Step 8 / Tradition 8)
9. Making Amends (Step 9 / Tradition 9)
10. Ongoing Inventory (Step 10 / Tradition 10)
11. Prayer and Meditation (Step 11 / Tradition 11)
12. Service and Carrying the Message (Step 12 / Tradition 12)
Book Companion Resources
Worksheets, safety guidance and facilitator materials are optional resources outside the graded lessons.
Appendix A — Quiz Answer Keys
SECTION 14 APPENDIX A
Quiz Answer Keys
textbook.
Module 1 — Answer Key
1. B — We admitted we were powerless over our addictions
2. B — Group welfare comes first
3. A — Repeated broken promises to self or others
4. True
Module 2 — Answer Key
1. B — Believe a Power greater than ourselves can restore us
2. A — Keeping a daily gratitude list
3. True
4. A — Hope is a small, steady expectation that change is possible
Module 3 — Answer Key
1. B — Turn our will and lives over to the care of God
2. A — A 1–2-minute morning prayer
3. True
4. A — Practice one small habit daily
Module 4 — Answer Key
1. A — Resentments
2. B — Protect your privacy and choose a trusted person for Step 5
3. True
4. A — Have a support contact if you feel overwhelmed
Module 5 — Answer Key
1. A — Confessing to God, ourselves, and another trusted person
2. A — Choosing an emotionally stable listener
3. True
4. A — “I have something important to share; can you listen without
judgment?”
Module 6 — Answer Key
1. A — Entirely ready to have God remove defects
2. A — Pause and take three deep breaths before responding
3. True
4. A — Use a simple daily note or habit tracker
Module 7 — Answer Key
1. A — Humility and asking God to remove shortcomings
2. A — Self-supporting service
3. A — Leave a helpful note or volunteer quietly
4. True
Module 8 — Answer Key
1. A — Make a list of all persons harmed and become willing
2. A — Nonprofessional peer support
3. True
4. A — The other person’s emotional readiness or risk of harm
Module 9 — Answer Key
1. A — Wherever possible, except when it would injure them or others
2. A — Consider their readiness and safety
3. True
4. A — “I want to say I am sorry for [specific action].”
Module 10 — Answer Key
1. A — Ongoing inventory and prompt admission of wrongs
2. A — A short template in a phone note or journal
3. True
4. A — Date; What went well; Where I fell short; What I will do differently;
Prayer
Module 11 — Answer Key
1. A — Improving conscious contact with God
2. A — A 2–10-minute guided meditation or breath prayer
3. True
4. A — Greater calm or clearer perspective
Module 12 — Answer Key
1. A — Carrying the message and practicing these principles
2. A — Anonymity and placing principles before personalities
3. True
4. A — One small, anonymous act of help within 30 days
Appendix B — Worksheets and Templates
Appendix B Worksheets and Templates
These pages provide writing tools for the inventory, confession preparation, character change,
amends, daily reflection, prayer, and service assignments in the twelve modules.
Use only the pages that support your present work. Protect names and sensitive information, and
keep completed worksheets in a secure place. A trusted mentor or counselor can help you decide
when to pause a difficult exercise.
Worksheets begin on the following page.
Appendix B-1 — Step 4 Inventory Worksheets
1. Resentments Inventory Worksheet
Columns:
• Person / Institution / Principle
• What Happened
• How It Affected Me
• My Part
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Resentments Inventory Worksheet Person / Institution / Principle:
What Happened:
How It Affected Me (fear, pride, relationships, security, etc.):
My Part (selfishness, dishonesty, fear, expectations, etc.):
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. Fears Inventory Worksheet
Columns:
• Fear
• Why I Have This Fear
• How It Affects My Life
• What God Would Have Me Do
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Fears Inventory Worksheet Fear: ________________________________________
Why I Have This Fear:
How It Affects My Life:
What God Would Have Me Do:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
3. Harms Done to Others Worksheet
Columns:
• Person / Group
• Harm Done
• Motive
• What I Should Have Done Instead
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Harms Done Worksheet Person / Group: _______________________________
Harm Done:
Motive:
What I Should Have Done Instead:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
4. Assets (Strengths) Inventory Worksheet
Columns:
• Strength
• Where I See It in My Life
• How Can I Grow It
Template (Option A):
Strength: ____________________________________ Where I See It: _______________________________ How I Can Grow It: ____________________________
Appendix B-2 — Step 5 Preparation Worksheets
1. Step 5 Listener Selection Checklist
Qualities to Look For:
• Emotionally stable
• Non-judgmental
• Spiritually grounded
• Able to maintain confidentiality
• Not personally involved in your harms
Template (Option A):
Person I’m Considering: ________________________ Why They Are a Good Fit:
Concerns or Boundaries:
2. Step 5 Opening Script Template
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Step 5 Opening Script (Write a respectful, clear opening statement.)
──────────────────────────────────────────────
Appendix B-3 — Step 6 & 7 Worksheets
1. Defect-to-Virtue Mapping Sheet
Columns:
• Character Defect
• Opposite Virtue
• Daily Practice
• Tracking Method
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Defect-to-Virtue Mapping Worksheet Character Defect: _____________________________ Opposite Virtue: ______________________________
Daily Practice:
Tracking Method (journal, habit tracker, check-ins):
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. Humility Practice Planner
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Humility Practice Planner Anonymous Service Idea:
How I Will Do It:
How I Will Reflect Afterward:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
Appendix B-4 — Step 8 & 9 Worksheets
1. Harm List Template
Columns:
• Category (family, friends, workplace, etc.)
• Nature of Harm
• Emotional Impact
• Willingness Level
• Safety Concerns
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Harm List Worksheet Category: ____________________________________
Nature of Harm:
Emotional Impact:
Willingness Level (High / Medium / Low):
Safety Concerns:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. Amends Planning Sheet
Columns:
• Person / Group
• Harm Done
• Proposed Amends
• Safety Considerations
• Support Person
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Amends Planning Worksheet Person / Group: _______________________________
Harm Done:
Proposed Amends:
Safety Considerations:
Support Person: _______________________________ ──────────────────────────────────────────────
Appendix B-5 — Step 10 Worksheets
1. Daily Inventory Template
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Daily Inventory Template Date: ______________________
What Went Well Today:
Where I Fell Short:
What I Will Do Differently Tomorrow:
Prayer or Intention:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. 14-Day Inventory Tracker
Template (Option A):
Day 1 Notes: __________________________________ Day 2 Notes: __________________________________ Day 3 Notes: __________________________________ Day 4 Notes: __________________________________ Day 5 Notes: __________________________________ Day 6 Notes: __________________________________ Day 7 Notes: __________________________________ Day 8 Notes: __________________________________ Day 9 Notes: __________________________________ Day 10 Notes: _________________________________ Day 11 Notes: _________________________________ Day 12 Notes: _________________________________ Day 13 Notes: _________________________________ Day 14 Notes: _________________________________
Appendix B-6 — Step 11 Worksheets
1. Prayer & Meditation Routine Planner
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Prayer & Meditation Routine Planner Morning Practice:
Evening Practice:
Weekly Goals:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. 7-Day Prayer/Meditation Log
Template (Option A):
Day 1: ________________________________________ Day 2: ________________________________________ Day 3: ________________________________________ Day 4: ________________________________________ Day 5: ________________________________________ Day 6: ________________________________________ Day 7: ________________________________________
Appendix B-7 — Step 12 Worksheets
1. Service Project Planner
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Service Project Planner Goal: _________________________________________
Target Group:
Steps:
Timeframe:
Resources Needed:
Anonymity Considerations:
Impact Measure:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
2. Capstone Reflection Outline
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Capstone Reflection Outline Steps That Impacted Me Most:
How I Have Changed:
How I Will Continue Practicing These Principles:
──────────────────────────────────────────────
Appendix C — Safety Guidelines
SECTION 16 APPENDIX C
Safety Guidelines & Crisis Notes
This appendix provides essential safety guidance for individuals, families, and facilitators using this curriculum. It reinforces that recovery work must always be grounded in emotional safety, wise boundaries, and appropriate support.
Appendix C-1 — Emotional Safety Guidelines
1. Pace Yourself
Recovery is not a race. Move through the steps at a pace that feels safe, steady, and sustainable.
Reflection (Option A): One area where I need to slow down:
2. Know Your Triggers
Common triggers include:
• Stress
• Isolation
• Conflict
• Shame
• Exhaustion
• Certain people or places
Reflection (Option A): One trigger I need to watch for:
3. Use a Support System
Healthy support may include:
• A mentor or sponsor
• A pastor or ministry leader
• A trusted friend
• A recovery group
• A counselor or therapist
Reflection (Option A): One person I can reach out to when I feel overwhelmed:
4. Practice Grounding Skills
Examples:
• Deep breathing
• Name 5 things you see
• Short prayer
• Stepping outside for fresh air
• Journaling
Reflection (Option A): One grounding skill I will practice:
Appendix C-2 — Crisis Notes
1. When to Pause Recovery Work
Pause Step work if you experience:
• Intense emotional overwhelm
• Panic attacks
• Flashbacks
• Thoughts of harming yourself or others
• Uncontrollable urges to use
• Severe relational conflict
Pausing is not failure — it is wisdom.
2. When to Seek Immediate Help
Seek immediate help if you experience:
• Thoughts of self-harm
• Thoughts of harming someone else
• Loss of control
• Medical emergencies
• Situations involving abuse or violence
You are not alone. Reach out to a trusted person or local emergency services.
3. Safe People Checklist
A safe person is someone who:
• Listens without judgment
• Respects confidentiality
• Encourages healthy choices
• Does not pressure or manipulate
• Supports your boundaries
• Helps you stay accountable
Reflection (Option A): One safe person in my life:
Appendix C-3 — Boundaries for Recovery Work
1. Personal Boundaries
Healthy boundaries include:
• Saying “no” when needed
• Taking breaks
• Protecting your emotional space
• Avoiding unsafe people or places
2. Relational Boundaries
Examples:
• Not sharing Step 4 details with unsafe people
• Not making amends where harm may increase
• Not taking responsibility for others’ reactions
3. Digital Boundaries
• Avoid posting recovery details online
• Avoid public debates
• Protect your privacy
• Keep Step work offline
Appendix C-4 — Self-Care Planning Page
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Self-Care Plan Physical: ____________________________________ Emotional: ___________________________________ Spiritual: ____________________________________ Relational: ___________________________________ Rest / Sabbath: _______________________________ ──────────────────────────────────────────────
Appendix D — Facilitator Tools and Group Guidelines
SECTION 17 APPENDIX D
Facilitator Tools & Group Guidelines
This appendix equips facilitators, ministry leaders, and group mentors with structure, clarity, and best practices for leading recovery groups using this curriculum.
Appendix D-1 — Facilitator Role Overview
A facilitator is not:
• A therapist
• A savior
• A judge
• A fixer
A facilitator is:
• A guide
• A listener
• A timekeeper
• A protector of group safety
• A model of humility and honesty
Appendix D-2 — Group Guidelines (Recommended)
These guidelines can be read at the beginning of each meeting.
1. Confidentiality
“What’s said here stays here.”
2. No Cross-Talk
No interrupting, correcting, or giving advice unless asked.
3. Share in “I” Statements
Speak from your own experience.
4. No Fixing
We support each other without trying to solve each other’s problems.
5. Respect Time
Keep shares within the agreed time limit.
6. No Substance Use at Meetings
Arrive sober and safe.
7. Kindness and Grace
We honor each other’s humanity.
Appendix D-3 — Meeting Format Template
Opening (5 minutes):
• Welcome
• Prayer
• Read group guidelines
Check-In (10–15 minutes): Each person shares briefly:
• How are they doing
• One victory
• One challenge
Lesson or Module Content (20–30 minutes):
• Read the lesson
• Discuss key points
• Invite voluntary sharing
Assignment Review (optional):
• Participants may share insights from their assignments
Closing (5 minutes):
• Prayer
• Encouragement
• Reminders
Appendix D-4 — Facilitator Notes for Each Step
Step 1 — Emphasize safety and honesty
Avoid pushing participants to share more than they’re ready for.
Step 2 — Encourage gentle exploration of faith
Respect each person’s spiritual background.
Step 3 — Highlight daily surrender
Small habits matter more than big promises.
Step 4 — Protect emotional safety
Remind participants not to share identifying details in the group.
Step 5 — Encourage the wise selection of a listener
Facilitators should not pressure participants to choose them.
Step 6 — Normalize discomfort
Willingness often feels awkward at first.
Step 7 — Model humility
Share small examples of humble service.
Step 8 — Reinforce boundaries
Safety comes before amends.
Step 9 — Encourage preparation
Role-play scripts are helpful.
Step 10 — Promote consistency
Daily inventory is a maintenance tool.
Step 11 — Keep practices simple
Short, repeatable routines work best.
Step 12 — Celebrate growth
Service is the fruit of recovery.
Appendix D-5 — Facilitator Reflection Sheet
Template (Option D):
────────────────────────────────────────────── Facilitator Reflection Sheet What went well this week:
Challenges or concerns:
Participants who may need extra support:
My own spiritual/emotional needs:
Acknowledgments and About the Author
Acknowledgments
This curriculum was made possible through the grace of God and the faithful support of many individuals and communities.
Special thanks to:
• The men and women courageously walking the path of recovery
• The families who continue to hope, pray, and stand beside their loved ones
• The churches and ministries are committed to offering safe spaces for
healing
• The mentors, facilitators, and volunteers who carry the message with
humility
• The RGV Road to Recovery IA team for their dedication to excellence and
compassion
May this work honor your courage and strengthen your journey.
About the Author
Steve Eisenhauer is an executive leader, curriculum architect, and ministry strategist dedicated to building high-impact, faith-based recovery resources. With a passion for blending Scripture, behavioral science, and practical tools, Steve has overseen the development of flagship programs, premium-grade textbooks, and facilitator-ready materials for churches, families, and recovery communities.
His work reflects a commitment to clarity, excellence, and real-world usability — ensuring that every resource is accessible, transformative, and grounded in biblical truth.
About RGV Road to Recovery IA
RGV Road to Recovery IA is an Iowa-based nonprofit serving individuals, families, and churches
across the nation. Located in Franklin County, Iowa, the organization provides:
• Faith-based recovery curriculum
• Training for facilitators and ministry leaders
• Support tools for families
• Community-centered recovery initiatives
• Practical, Scripture-integrated resources
Our mission
To help people find freedom, healing, and long-term transformation through Christ-centered
recovery.
Program vision
This curriculum offers a pathway toward hope, strengthened families, equipped communities, and
a recovery practice that continues beyond an event.
Program Mission
To provide a structured, Scripture-rooted, 12-Step recovery journey that:
• Honors God
• Empowers individuals
• Strengthens families
• Equips churches
• Builds long-term resilience
• Encourages service and community impact
Recommended Use Cases
This curriculum is designed for:
Individuals
• Personal recovery
• Spiritual growth
• Daily accountability
Small Groups
• Church recovery ministries
• Men’s and women’s groups
• Peer-support circles
Facilitators & Mentors
• One-on-one discipleship
• Step-based mentoring
• Leadership development
Churches & Ministries
• Recovery programs
• Family support ministries
• Outreach and evangelism
Families
• Understanding addiction
• Supporting loved ones
• Building healthy boundaries
Final Blessing & Encouragement
As you complete this journey through the 12 Steps, may you walk forward with:
• Courage to face each day
• Grace for yourself and others
• Strength from God’s Spirit
• Hope that grows deeper with time
• The purpose that flows from your healing
• Love that transforms every relationship
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you. May He give you peace, wisdom, and strength for the road ahead.
Your story is not over. Your healing matters. Your life has purpose. And your recovery can become a blessing to many.
