Sometimes, we don't even have the desire or will to change those things we know we need to change in our own lives. We are powerless! The second part of the Serenity Prayer goes along with the First of the 12 Steps, where we must recognize that we are powerless over some things. For some it is alcohol or the alcoholic, for others it may be some other compulsion, dependency, or weakness.

If I look solely within myself for power and serenity as I accept my powerlessness over things I cannot change, I will not find the help or power I need. I must have the Higher Power help me. Thank God! My Higher Power will answer this prayer! God will work in me and give me the ability to accept what I cannot change, and I know that God can make all the difference I really need to have made in me and my circumstances. God is not powerless. God is all powerful, all knowing, all loving! God wants to share His power, knowledge, and love with me.  Many have come to find the acceptance, inner peace, and power they seek when they pray: "God grant me the serenity TO ACCEPT THE THINGS I CANNOT CHANGE, the Courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference."