Twelve Steps Of A.a. Step Eight Who Have I Injured?
An important part of living with God in recovery is coming to an accurate view of what went wrong in our relationships and doing our part to make things right. What prompted us to physically, mentally, or emotionally, hurt another person? Regardless of the excuses we may make for our behaviour, we need to admit that we did cause harm to some family members, friends and others.
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:9 NIV)
When we reflect on ways we have hurt other people, some of our disruptive behaviours may quickly come to mind. Perhaps we spoke in anger or we used distance and coldness to wound others. Our lying, cheating, or stealing from others deprived them of peace of mind and emotional security. What we thought were “victimless crimes” always had a victim. Many of us used domineering and controlling tactics so we could manipulate others and ensure we got our own way. We were masters at playing the blame game and were unwilling to talk about our issues or take responsibility for the situations we created around us. 
A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (2 Timothy 2:24-26 NLT)
God created us to live in loving relationships. Whether a breakdown happened an hour ago or a decade ago, God is with us to help us work for reconciliation. As we seek His wisdom, God will show us how our attitude and behaviour harmed others either directly or indirectly, and will help us become willing to make amends.
Prayer: Loving God, Help us to confess our sins to each other and pray for each other so that we can be healed. Amen
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