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.Sometimes, life is crazy. The last couple of weeks have been in some ways, horrible and crazy for me. As I look at today’s posting and go over the readings in the journal process I can’t say enough about how the process of going through this book has helped me in my journey of faith.
I won’t go into a ton of detail because I don’t want to succumb to the pain inflicted by others. It amazes me at how the people we love and care for can abuse others with their religious dogmas and attitudes. One of the things that hurts is when it is people I have genuinely loved and cared for that hurts me and or others. Such has been the case recently in my life once again. To them I am just whining, they seem to not care for the pain and hurt. It is their excuse to feel spiritually superior.
As I look back, I have made progress. In my pain, and my actions I haven’t retaliated, but instead, I love despite the pain. I could say nothing more important than the verses used in this entry.
God help me maintain integrity, love and an attitude which mirrors Jesus. When I fail, forgive me and remind me of my own need to address my issues. Help me to love more perfectly and to follow your biblical guidelines regarding the relationships and love I am to have for others. God, I realize I can’t do it on my own, I need you.
To whom you are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. ~ Luke 6:27, 28
The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full pof mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. ~ James 3:17
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