February 1 CHAP 26 v 2 TWELVE STEPPING WITH STRENGTH FROM THE PSALMS

Put me on trial ,Lord ,and cross -examine me .

Test my motives and my heart. (GODS BIG BOOK)

STEP 5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

There is an order to this step in which it is very important to follow. God should be first in everything when it comes to us living life. Especially for those of  us in recovery . We were first always and that is selfishness and pride . Coming second teaches humility and that cultivates patience and these two are essential for sobriety .What is driving your behaviors and what are the reasons behind the decisions you are making when it comes to how you treat others and how you live your life . Is your heart still ruled by a ME desire or is it full of love for others . During cross-examination be ready to discover the real reason behind the pain you caused others . During my working of this step the reality of all the pain I caused hit me like a run away locomotive. The self-inflicted pain was slowly opening the bars around my heart .It is so important we take this on it is called accountability and responsibility . It will be one of the hardest steps but it is one that will bring a joy and freedom you thought not possible in this life. When working this step with another person be sure it is with someone who has a proven track record when it comes to carrying other peoples dirty laundry.

James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

(GODS BIG BOOK)         By Joseph Dickerson