Today starts a new day; I realize that I have been abused by religion. It took me through Day 8, 9 before I realized this, but I am glad I did. You can go back to see my comments on Day 8 and 9 to see what I am speaking of. I am taking the time to do the exercises as outlined in the book; Recovering From Religious Abuse, 11 Steps to Spiritual Freedom written by: Jack Watts. While I know that hurt and abuse as described and presented in the book are two different things, I have come to the understanding that in regards to taking advantage of me I have in fact been abused. I will admit, one of my greatest concerns is I may have at times abused religion. I don’t think I have but this journey will help me understand where I am at and in the process help others as I journal each day with the steps outlined in the book.Today I start Step 6 of the 11 Step process. I realize I have to work to not become like those who have done me wrong. I also realize I have been making the effort to do this for some time. While I am doing pretty well in this area I have moments of weakness. I need to work on consistency; the last thing I want is to be in any way like those who have done me wrong.
It is easy to get to the place where I think I am all there, or doing well, despite the progress I may experience, I have to remind myself that I must seek God daily. I must work at not being like the ones who have hurt me. I liked the comment today in the book regarding walking in the light as opposed to thinking I am the light. Only Jesus is the light, only his ways are perfect. I can’t do it on my own; I must walk with Jesus, allowing his Spirit to teach me day by day, moment by moment.
I normally try to spend time with God on a daily basis, but the distractions impact me. I long for time to be alone where I control my environment. Sometimes it is easy to get so busy doing ministry, that I can’t find the time to allow God to minister to me. It is only as I allow God to minister to me that I can grow and receive and put into practice the things God has for me.
Father help me walk with you in the moment; help me appreciate the work you do in my life. I pray that I become more like you and shed my imperfections. I ask that you would assist in shedding my sins like a snake sheds its skin. While there may be struggle, with the shedding comes a new me. Help me go through this process on a regular basis, as I need it to become more like you.
Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:25
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