And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, … and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever.
~ 2 Nephi 26:22 ~

There’s a reason the scriptures don’t say the adversary drags us with chains from the beginning. They say he starts with a flaxen cord—soft, subtle, almost unnoticeable.

Flaxen cords feel harmless. They feel like “I’m fine.” They feel like “It’s not that bad.” They feel like “Everyone else is the problem.” They can be associated with small compromises and everyday distractions that initially seem trivial, but over time can lead us down a path we never intended to walk.

We might find ourselves rationalizing decisions that, in retrospect, clearly lead away from our values or beliefs. Gradually, we become accustomed to the tightened grip of that cord, oblivious to our increasing vulnerability. Over time, each little distraction or compromise we accept acts as another loop in that cord, binding us tighter and tighter until we feel as though escape is impossible.

And then one day, you wake up and realize you’re not holding the cord. The cord is holding you. The realization can be jolting; it is a moment of clarity where we recognize how far we’ve strayed from our intended path. This moment often comes with feelings of regret, confusion, or despair, as we confront the reality of our situation.

This is exactly how 2 Nephi 26:22 operates in real life. Not with sudden destruction—but with slow spiritual erosion until the truth becomes unavoidable. It’s a gradual process, where the adversary uses our own indifference against us, allowing darker patterns to take root before we even realize the danger. Awareness becomes the first step toward liberation. By recognizing the effects of the flaxen cord, we can take action—whether seeking support, reevaluating our choices, or returning to foundational truths that can help strengthen us against the subtlety of temptation. Thus, the journey back to freedom is not only possible but essential for spiritual renewal and growth.

Hello and welcome fellow travelers. Today, we are going to focus on what it means to take that single step. How it breaks the flaxen cords that brought us into captivity, and how we take necessary action when we step out in faith and into God’s grace – a grace that empowers us to seek His will, His purpose, and brings us into a right relationship with who he is, his love, tender mercies, and joy.

Let’s pray

It was very difficult for me to admit to the reality of my addiction; the issues I consistently experienced time and time again. Reaching a point in my life where it seems to be a never-ending merry-go-round of dysfunction. Always remembering how I often said, “this isn’t my first rodeo,” where my own life continued to spiral out of control. And the worst of it – my proficiency at blaming other people, circumstances, or the often catch-all resignation that “well, this is my life” attitude. Defeatism. Realism. It’s other people to blame. If only that reasoning worked for so long.

And then – reality came crashing into my own illusions. Sitting outside, close to midnight, having a conversation with a gentleman outside the church where I was recently hired on as a custodian. I was complaining about life, about so-called Christians, about my own woe-is-me pity party. He said the most insidious thing: “no one owes you anything.” We continued to engage in conversation, but his words lingered heavily in my mind. I went back inside to work, finished up cleaning the church. Set the alarm and then walked out, feeling angry, upset, and deeply discouraged. I walked out to where my Mazda 323 was parked. Climbed in, retreating into the solitude of that small space that had become my refuge. No, I did not drive home. That green hatchback was my home. Here I was, homeless, having faith in God, yet bitter, resentful, angry, and defiant.

The audacity of him to tell me no one owes me anything felt like a punch to the gut, igniting a fire of indignation within me. How could he say that? Didn’t anyone understand the struggles I faced, the obstacles I had overcome, the countless hours I had wasted feeling sorry for myself?

And then – reality sank further in, creeping into the corners of my wounded self. There was no still small voice; there was no gentle impression. Instead, it was a powerful telegraphic voice that spoke within and without – surround sound.

“Look at where you are at!”

I sat up sharply and looked around, the dark night giving way to clarity amidst the chaos. Maybe I was going out of my mind. The encapsulating silence seemed to respond, urging me to confront the truth.

“Who got you in this situation?”

I had to be honest, had to be truthful – with myself, with God, and with the reality of my life. It was a spiritual reckoning, powerful and convicting, and it rebuked my past excuses and justifications. It was humbling to the point of tears, leaving me pleading and begging for forgiveness, a deep yearning to be released from the shackles of my own making. This moment of confrontation became a pivotal point in my life, a moment that illuminated the path ahead, where I could no longer hide behind my failures or blame the world for my circumstances. This moment demanded that I take ownership of my choices and, perhaps for the first time, truly seek redemption.

This was the single step for me and the process of my own recovery path. I’d like to say that from that single moment and spiritual experience, things went according to plan, but the reality was quite different. They did not unfold seamlessly as I had hoped. I still had to do a lot of work to untangle the complexities of my emotions and experiences, and fortunate for me, God is loving, gracious, and full of tender mercies in His long suffering toward me. His kindness illuminated my darkest days and provided me with the strength to push through. My path and journey were not smooth; rather, it was fraught with challenges, moments of profound introspection, faith crises, and persistent doubts that threatened to derail my progress. Each obstacle tested my resolve and forced me to confront my fears, ultimately shaping my character and deepening my understanding of faith. In this process, I learned that true growth often comes from navigating through difficulties, and that perseverance, paired with the grace of God, can lead to transformative healing and self-discovery.

It was the first single major step of many that took place over the years before it finally clicked – before I finally got an understanding and grasp of what I was doing and what needed to be done. Today, I celebrate 21 years of thriving in sobriety from Alcoholism, 11 years thriving in sobriety from toxic and co-dependent relationships, and 1 year from cigarette smoking. Each milestone represents not just a moment of triumph, but a series of profound lessons learned through struggle and resilience. It involved countless late nights of self-reflection, therapy sessions that challenged my beliefs, and the unwavering support of friends and mentors who inspired me to believe in myself. And it did not come easy – yet it became worthwhile and needful, as every step forward brought me closer to a version of myself that I never thought was possible, filling my life with clarity, purpose, and joy. The journey, although daunting at times, has proven to be one of the most rewarding adventures I could ever embark upon, opening doors to new opportunities and deepening my relationships with others who share similar paths.

And it had to come at a cost of my self-reliance and self-sufficiency, which I had prided myself on for so long. This transformation came at a profound cost of dying to self, a painful but necessary process that required me to put to rest my own ego and the defensive walls I had built. I found myself needing to discipline myself to seek God and His kingdom and His righteousness fervently, understanding that this journey required a deep commitment. It cost me the stark realization that when people called me out – they were calling me to awareness, to a deeper understanding of myself and my actions. Yet, I often justified, rationalized, and deflected their observations, clinging to my old ways, hesitant to embrace the growth that awaited me on the other side. This internal struggle was not merely a challenge but a crucial passage that prompted me to confront my vulnerabilities and emerge more aligned with my true purpose.

I. THE PATTERN OF SUBTLE BONDAGE

1. Ether 8:24 — Secret Combinations Begin in the Dark: “…suffer not that these murderous combinations shall get above you…”

The adversary operates in secrecy, much like the insidious nature of addiction, denial, and self-deception. These forces often begin as subtle whisperings in our minds, masking themselves as innocent thoughts or temporary escapes. Bondage starts quietly and internally, entwining itself around our thoughts and emotions before it manifests outwardly in our actions. Just as light exposes what is hidden in darkness, self-awareness serves as a crucial tool to uncover these hidden combinations that threaten our spiritual and emotional well-being. We must remain vigilant, actively seeking to recognize these patterns in our lives and refusing to allow them to dominate our thoughts or choices.

2. Mosiah 3:19 — The Natural Man Resists Awareness: “For the natural man is an enemy to God…”

The “natural man” is that inherent aspect of our beings which often resists accountability, prefers to cast blame on others, and circumvents the truths that require us to change and grow. This part of ourselves seeks comfort in the familiar and the known, even if it leads us away from righteousness. It whispers justifications and rationalizations in moments of discomfort, encouraging a default response of deflection. “I often justified, rationalized, and deflected… clinging to my old ways.” This cycle can be challenging to break free from, but recognition of this tendency is the first step toward transformation. Acknowledging our natural inclinations allows us to confront our weaknesses and navigate toward a higher state of awareness and accountability.

3. Alma 12:10–11 — Hearts Harden Gradually: “…then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will…”

Captivity is a gradual process, often starting with subtle influences that creep into our lives. Just as a small thread can weave itself into a mighty cord, the implications of our decisions can gather strength over time through repetition, secrecy, and avoidance. What begins as a minor indulgence can easily escalate into a powerful chain that binds us if left unchecked. The metaphor of flaxen cords that become chains serves as a stark reminder that vigilance is essential. Our hearts can harden, making it more difficult to recognize the pull of these gradual influences. To combat this, we must cultivate a practice of continuous self-examination and repentance, ensuring that we remain aware of our actions and the state of our hearts, resisting the gradual tug toward captivity. By doing so, we can maintain our spiritual freedom and avoid the shackles that the adversary desires for us.

II. THE MOMENT OF RECKONING — WHEN THE CORD IS EXPOSED

4. Luke 15:17 — “He Came to Himself”: The prodigal son’s turning point is not merely a narrative; it mirrors the journey many of us undertake. When the text states, “Then a time came when we were brought face-to-face with reality,” it encapsulates a profound spiritual awakening that many experience at a crucial junction in their lives. This is the moment when distractions fade, and clarity emerges. The facade of illusion crumbles away, revealing a deeper truth that compels us to reassess our choices and our direction. It is within this snap of realization that transformation begins.

This pivotal moment is akin to a spiritual awakening—a kind of epiphany that invites us to return to our authentic selves. Just as the prodigal son recognizes his dire state and decides to return home, we too can find that moment of clarity that inspires change. It prompts us to embrace humility, acknowledge our past missteps, and seek redemption. Such moments are often characterized by a feeling of liberation, as we shed the layers of denial and self-deception.

5. Hebrews 12:1 — The Sin That “Easily Entangles”: Celebrate Recovery Devotional for Day 2 uses this scripture effectively: “…the sin which so easily entangles us…” (Hebrews 12:1). This passage has profound implications for anyone striving for clarity and direction in life. The metaphor of entanglement illustrates how easily we can be ensnared by habitual struggles, temptations, and distractions that hinder our spiritual progress. The imagery of running a race is powerful; it evokes the idea that every race begins with a single step, but that first step can be obscured by the burdens we carry.

Recognizing what entangles us is the first step towards liberation. The “flaxen cord” of the New Testament serves as a reminder of how seemingly insignificant threads can weave together, forming a tapestry that restrains us. By identifying the specific sins or habits that threaten to ensnare us, we create an opportunity to shed those weights, allowing us to run with endurance. In doing so, we align ourselves with a greater purpose, moving away from situations that hinder our journey and towards a path of healing and restoration. This race of faith requires vigilance, intentionality, and the courage to confront our vulnerabilities.

III. THE FIRST STEP — HONESTY BREAKS THE CORD

6. Ether 12:27 — Weakness Revealed → Strength Given: President Uchtdorf’s teaching (quoted in your document) reinforces this: “If our weaknesses… remain obscured in the shadows, then the redeeming power of the Savior cannot heal them…” This emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our vulnerabilities. In our journey of faith, it is through the recognition of our weaknesses that we can truly harness the strength offered to us through Christ. Honest introspection allows us to confront the areas in our lives that need healing, and in doing so, we invite the redeeming grace of the Savior into our lives.

A metaphor for this process can be found in the phrase, “Honesty is the blade that cuts the flaxen cord.” Just as the blade frees the cord from whatever binds it, so too does honesty free our spirits from the burdens of denial and shame. When we shine a light on our weaknesses, we create an opportunity for growth and transformation. It is in these moments of vulnerability that we often experience the most powerful manifestations of divine strength.

7. Alma 36:12–17 — Recognition Precedes Redemption: Alma’s conversion begins with brutal self-awareness: “I was racked with torment… I remembered all my sins…” This painful moment of recollection is not only essential to Alma’s transformation but serves as a reminder to all of us that true redemption often begins with a difficult but necessary reckoning with our past. Similarly, my own moment in the Mazda was an awakening; “It was humbling to the point of tears… a deep yearning to be released from the shackles of my own making.”

In vulnerability, we find authenticity, and through that authenticity, we can connect deeply with both ourselves and with God. The process of recognizing our sins, akin to Alma’s experience, can be overwhelming and gut-wrenching, leading us to the emotional depths of despair. Yet, it is crucial; it is a path that leads us toward redemption and liberation. The journey through self-awareness challenges us but ultimately prepares us to embrace the mercy and grace available to us through Christ.

8. Doctrine & Covenants 58:43 — Confession + Forsaking: “By this ye may know if a man repenteth…” This biblical scriptural reference highlights that true repentance is not merely a feeling but includes tangible actions, culminating in confession and a commitment to forsake our past misdeeds. The first step is always admission—it is about confronting the truth of our circumstances, as exactly as the LDS Addiction Recovery manual states: “We finally admitted the truth that our lives had become unmanageable…” This statement captures the essence of beginning anew.

Admitting our faults is like venturing into the light after being in the dark for far too long. It may be uncomfortable at first, but the relief that follows is profound. Through this admission, we open the door to forgiveness, healing, and transformation. It is in this vulnerable position that we create an environment where spiritual growth is possible, allowing the Savior’s love and support to envelop us as we move forward in our journey toward healing and redemption. Each of these scriptural references emphasizes that recognizing and confessing our weaknesses lays the critical foundation upon which we can build a stronger, more resilient spirit, aligned with God’s purpose for us.

IV. THEOLOGICAL EXEGESIS OF 2 NEPHI 26:22

Let’s break down the verse itself:

“Secret combinations… according to the combinations of the devil”

These represent patterns of hidden behavior—addiction, denial, secrecy, rationalization. The implications of these “secret combinations” echo throughout various aspects of life, emphasizing how easily one can fall into these traps without realizing the extent of their influence. These behaviors often flourish in the shadows, where honesty and openness are absent, and they can lead to a downward spiral that is difficult to escape.

“He leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord”

A flaxen cord is:

• thin
• soft
• easily broken

but only if recognized early. The symbolism of a flaxen cord is powerful; it represents the delicate and often deceptive nature of initial temptations and bad habits. This symbolizes early-stage spiritual drift—the stage where we still believe we’re in control. It’s in this phase that individuals may overlook warning signs and dismiss their behavior as harmless, unaware that they are being gently nudged away from their values and beliefs.

“Until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever”

If unaddressed, habits become chains. Over time, what begins as a seemingly innocent connection can transform into something much darker and more binding. Patterns become prisons, and denial becomes bondage, trapping individuals in a cycle that feels inescapable. The trajectory from a flaxen cord to strong, unbreakable chains illustrates the alarming progression of addiction and how quickly one can become entrapped.

Our own personal recovery story captures this progression exactly: “With each act of lying… we bound ourselves with ‘flaxen cords’ that soon became as strong as chains.” This personal account reflects the universal journey many individuals face—each small decision compounds over time, leading to more substantial entanglements.

The verse describes the psychology of addiction long before modern recovery language existed. The wisdom contained within this scripture offers insights that resonate deeply with contemporary understanding of addiction and recovery. It serves as a cautionary tale about the gradual erosion of personal agency and the importance of recognizing signs of trouble before they become overwhelming. By approaching these themes with mindfulness, individuals can break free from the cycle and reclaim control over their lives.

V. THE SINGLE STEP THAT BREAKS THE CYCLE

My own testimony is the embodiment of Day 2: “This was the single step for me… the process of my own recovery path.” This sentiment reflects a profound truth about the nature of healing and self-discovery. The journey to recovery often feels overwhelming, yet it is in those moments of honesty and confrontation with oneself that true progress begins.

And the ARP manual confirms: “The amazing thing about this honest realization… was that recovery finally began.” This highlights the importance of acknowledging our struggles, fears, and failures. Without facing these difficult truths, it is nearly impossible to move forward. Acknowledging where we are allows us to set a foundation for change, guiding us toward healthier choices and behaviors.

The first step is not sobriety. The first step is truth. Embracing this truth leads to clarity and empowerment. It’s a catalyst that ignites hope and motivates us to seek the support necessary for lasting change. Recognizing and owning our story is crucial; it transforms our shame into strength and creates a path illuminated by authenticity. Through this process, we not only find ourselves but also learn to connect with others who share similar experiences, establishing a supportive community that plays an essential role in our recovery journey.

ACROSTIC – A.C.T.I.O.N

A- Admit the Truth: When we acknowledge reality without excuses, denial, or blame, we are able to experience the loosening of the bindings of the flaxen cord. The cord that has tightened when we hid, minimize, or justified. The first cut of that cord is brutal honesty. As we finally admit to ourselves the truth that our lives have become powerless and unmanageable is the moment when illusions collapse and the Holy Spirit confronts us with clarity – Look at where you are at!

C-Confront the Flaxen Cord: Facing those subtle patterns, habits, and lies that have quietly bound our souls means that we are actively exposing the adversary’s strategy: According to 2 Nephi 26:22, he begins with soft cords. Not chains. Confronting these early patterns – self-pity, secrecy, resentment, entitlement – is the spiritual awakening that stops the progression toward spiritual rebellion and bondage. This is the moment we become fully aware and admit to ourselves the reality who got us into this situation.

T – Turn Toward God: Redirecting our heart from ourselves, our self-reliance tendencies, and toward Him and His will, intent, and purpose occurs when we come to the realization, we need help from God. We come to a place where we are honest with ourselves and others that pivot us from despair to hope, from isolation to connection and fellowship. It is the first spiritual movement that breaks the adversary’s hold over our hearts and minds.

I – Invite Accountability: When we allow others permission to hold us accountable, to check in on us, to speak truth and life into us – whether they are fellow travelers, sponsors, accountability partners, clergy and religious leaders, or other people within our faith communities – we allow them to speak reality so that we are edified, corrected, rebuked, and convicted. It was with the gentleman who spoke – “no one owes you anything” that became the very catalyst of my own awakening to the awful condition of my situation. It exposed the flaxen cord and forced me to see what I’ve avoided. Hebrews 12:1 calls this the “great cloud of witnesses” who help us run the race with endurance.

O – Own Your Choices: When we begin to accept and take responsibility for our past without shame, blame, or deflection – we step out of the victimhood mentality. It is the moment we take ownership of our own lives, our own faith, and our own recovery process and journey. It is the moment we come to see the truth that it is not about punishment or condemnation. It is about liberation.

N – Navigate the Next Step: Finally, moving forward with small consistent steps that are led by the Spirit means we are disciplining ourselves to seek out Godly wisdom to make informed decisions so that we are able to follow through with those things revealed to us. Recovery is not a leap; it is a sequence of steps. In the day two devotional for Celebrate Recovery it shares that “a race begins with a single step.” God does not demand perfection from us. He asks for direction. Each step weakens the flaxen cords that hold us bound – that once held us captive and strengthens our journey along the covenant path beneath our feet.

CONCLUSION — THE TAKEAWAY

People don’t share their testimony and message because they’re polished. They share because they’re true.

This message is true:

The adversary binds slowly, weaving a web of doubt and confusion over time. It creeps in unnoticed, silencing voices and distorting perceptions. But amidst this slow ensnarement, God’s liberation arrives with a suddenness that is both startling and transformative. His grace breaks the chains, setting free those who are caught in the adversary’s grasp.

The first step is honesty. Embracing vulnerability and admitting where we stand opens the door to true connection and healing. It requires courage to confront our reality and lay bare our struggles. This step is not just personal; it ripples outward, inviting others to experience their own moments of truth and awakening.

The first step is yours. You have the power to take that courageous leap. It’s a choice that can spark change in your life and in the lives of those around you. No one can take that step for you; it is your decision to make. The journey may be daunting, but with that first honest step, you begin to pave a path toward freedom.

The power that follows is His. When you align your honesty with spiritual truth, you invite divine assistance. God’s power is made perfect in our weakness; it is in acknowledging our limitations that we allow His strength to shine. This partnership is where true transformation occurs, allowing us to rise above our circumstances.

Your story is the sermon. Each of our narratives holds unique power and potential. The experiences we endure can inspire and uplift others, resonating deeply with their own struggles and victories. Sharing your journey can ignite hope and bring light to areas of darkness.

2 Nephi 26:22 is the diagnosis. This scripture addresses the nature of the adversary and the importance of honesty and kindness in our interactions. Recognizing and understanding our spiritual diagnosis allows us to counteract the lies that may lead to despair.

Hebrews 12:1 is the prescription. It calls us to run our race with endurance, shedding the weights that hold us back. This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our journey; encouragement and empowerment are found within the teachings and community that support us.

Christ is the cure. In every moment of struggle and every battle against doubt, Christ stands as the ultimate answer. His love, grace, and sacrifice provide the foundation for healing and redemption. In Him, we find the strength to overcome and the promise of new beginnings. Through faith in Christ, we embrace the truths we carry, and from that honesty, freedom flourishes.