Out of Isolation
Today's Scripture
"Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]." James 5:16 AMP
Thoughts for Today
This week we've talked about admitting your needs to yourself and to God. Now it's time to share what you've learned with another person, perhaps a trusted Christian friend.
Sharing with others helps remove you from the isolation caused by defenses you may have built around yourself in an attempt to avoid pain and embarrassment. As you prepare to take this step, it is important to remember that although it may be helpful to share your concerns with another, only Christ can forgive sins. There are some personal concerns that only God needs to know.
Consider this …
After honestly admitting your problem to God, yourself and others and receiving God's forgiveness, it's time to put the past behind and begin taking positive steps to rebuild your life. Some things will require continued prayer and corrective action on your part. Be open to God's guidance and to the people he may send you to help you along the way. Throughout the process, remember this: You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
Prayer
Father, give me the courage to share my struggles with a friend. Help me to be open and obedient to your guidance. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Stepping into Freedom: A Christ-Centered Twelve-Step Program by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This twelve-step program is suggested for use in support groups, recovery groups and home groups. It offers help for anyone struggling with a life-controlling problem like drug addiction, alcoholism, sexual addiction, gambling or workaholism. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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