So What Exactly is Meant by a “Power Greater than Ourselves” – Step 2

Written by

Bodhi Baba

Step 2, Zonr Posts

“I cannot
imagine a God
who rewards and
punishes the objects
of his creation and
is but a reflection
of human
frailty.”

Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955) German-American physicist

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How would you describe the concept of a “power greater than yourself”? (Hints in the Einstein video below.)

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Valhalla -RL Grime ft. Djemba Djemba (4:25 )

Einstein on God (4:57)

Five Finger Qi Gong Guided Meditation (5:28)

In today’s SFZ, Step Two of the Twelve Steps calls for belief in “a Power greater than ourselves,” a concept that challenges many. The Basic Text of Narcotics Anonymous reveals a common struggle: many newcomers initially reject the spiritual element. They seek help for addiction but resist admitting a need for faith or a return to sanity. This denial can stall progress in recovery.

William James, in The Varieties of Religious Experience, argues that spiritual transformation begins with surrender. He explains that belief in a higher power is not about dogma but about restoring psychological balance. When people acknowledge their limitations, they open themselves to healing.

As Bill Sees It clarifies this higher power as loving, purposeful, and just. It frames God—or a higher power—as a force that offers direction and meaning, not judgment. This idea counters punitive notions of divinity and aligns with Carl Jung’s view in Modern Man in Search of a Soul. Jung suggests that spiritual experience satisfies a deep psychological need and fosters wholeness.

Einstein’s quote complicates the discussion. He rejected a personal God who mirrors human flaws. Instead, he revered a cosmic intelligence beyond human traits. For some in recovery, this broad definition makes the higher power more accessible. They find comfort in a force that does not judge but sustains.

Ultimately, Step Two is not about theology. It’s about openness. When individuals embrace the idea of a power greater than themselves—however they define it—they unlock the potential for hope, healing, and lasting recovery.

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Comments

6 responses to “So What Exactly is Meant by a “Power Greater than Ourselves” – Step 2”

May 16, 2025

Sabrina J

When I observe the world around me, it is obvious there is an influence that is unseen by mortal eyes. I lack the power to lift mountains, nor fill the oceans. I lack the craft to create all life, beast, bird nor rock or plant. And when look up, the night sky is filled with the potential of countless more worlds twinkling and sparking imagination. At the very moment you read this, we are speeding through space at 67,000 kph, we literally are on a spaceship, protected by an atmosphere, stocked with every supply we can imagine in perfect harmony with all that surrounds us.

I need no other proof that there is a power beyond my comprehension, that has lovingly made all of this possible. For which I am filled with wonder and gratitude.

Reply
May 17, 2013

Br. Buddha

Good morning everyone + Happy Friday. Here is today’s thought. Step 2 for me was challenging. I had long dropped the idea that there was a God or Higher Force in the universe that was all about love. I gave up on God. I am very grateful that Go never gave up on me. Guided by my sponsor + other AA’s, I formed a new understanding with God. This helped me grow in a relationship with God, myself, + others. Give it a chance. You will be transformed too. Blessings BB

Reply
May 17, 2013

Jon G

My concept of a high power does not lend itself well to description. However, I do adhere to the only requirement I have ever been told in the program–namely, that it is not me. Sorry I cannot elaborate further but I am confident most will understand and I believe it is very common for people to have difficulty committing their understanding to words.

Reply
August 17, 2012

Adam

Coincidentally I was just reading some other things about Einstein and other physicists yesterday. He stated that it is an optical delusion of consciousness that our experiences, feelings, and thoughts are completely separate from or unrelated to others. Schrodinger, a quantum physicist, stated that it is inconceivable that the unity of knowledge and feelings we share with others just sprung from nothingness when we were born. My concept of my HP is we are all a part of God. God is in all of us and I just need to get out of the way.

Reply
May 17, 2012

Margot E.

I am back home after a trip down south to celebrate the life of my ex-husband. He was a wonderful and generous person when he was sober. I want to thank him for all the new experiences we shared. He was sober when he died and he never worked a program of recovery – precisely because of Step 2. I mourn that he never got to know the love and fellowship of AA. At the same time I am grateful for Al-Anon for allowing me to reconnect with my HP, friends, and myself. I try to mourn without fear, and I am assured of the comfort, love and wisdom or my Higher Power.

Reply
1. May 19, 2012
  
  JB jr.
  
  Welcome back Margot. I’m sorry to hear about your ex but am gratified that we have found each other in recovery.
  
  Reply