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.
There is likely little irony today in that there are some pressing concerns I have for another couple and today is the day I normally come together with others to pray for our church and community. I just finished typing in a note at facebook that if people have prayer needs they can contact me and we will pray for them at our meeting today.
Is it any wonder that we need to confess our sins when coming to God? I think part of it is to realize that we are worthless without God and it is in and through God’s forgiveness that we have the ability to pray. It was for the sins of the world that Jesus was placed on the cross; it was through his blood, suffering, death and resurrection that we have the right to petition God. I need to know, God is much bigger than me and in reality I need to go to God because I in my own power, I have no power.
Confession is important because it is a part of what bring me to a place where God would have me. Of course that implies that I know what to confess, to have an understanding of my wrongs and how I have failed God. Today I will pray, but I will try to remember, it is through Jesus that I am able to pray, it is because of his love for me that I need to recognize my own failures and sins. It is because of those sins that Jesus died on that cross for me; it is through his resurrection and power that I have forgiveness. May I be the person God has called me to be, for without him, I really am, nothing.
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. ~ Ephesians 6:18
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4: 6, 7
The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months. Then he prayed again, and the sky poured rain and the earth produced its fruit. ~ James 5: 16-18
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