Step Four Fearless Focus On Myself

Friday April 29, 2022

 When we come to Step 4 in the 12-Step program we are asked to focus on ourselves and make a searching and fearless moral inventory.  We are not to focus on anyone else or on the impact they may have had on our lives.  We are to concentrate on ourselves and truthfully admit that it was our own decision making that got us to where we are today.  We are the ones who chose our way of life and in some instances ignored any good advice that others may have offered us. 


My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. (Proverbs 4:20-22 NLT)

 The reason we look at ourselves is to measure how our judgment measures up with the principles contained in the Scriptures as recorded in the Bible. Taking responsibility for our actions is a step in the right direction.  As we look at situations where we made irresponsible choices, we can assess our thinking process at that time and give some thought as to why we chose the route we did.  In some instances, we may have acted without even thinking about the consequences. 


We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NLT)

 

Most of us want to avoid self-examination.   It is much easier to blame others for the harm they caused us, and which we believe contributed to our defects of character.  It is true that some of us suffered traumatic events which we tried to mask with all sorts of sedatives.  Masking the grief will not bring about health.  We need to speak about what happened with a trusted friend or counselor and allow recovery to begin.  Our wounds will not heal until we give them to Jesus who took them upon Himself.

 Come to me, all you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads. I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28 NIRV)

 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Help me to be honest in my self-evaluation and allow the healing process of my life with You in recovery to begin.  Amen

 

 

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Audio for Step Four Fearless Focus On Myself

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