Step One

"We admitted we were powerless over the effects of our separation from God — that our lives had become unmanageable."

Romans 7:18 – I know nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. (NIV)

Some time ago, I was asked to do a study on the 12-step programme and the related scriptures. The step referred to here is one that is well known throughout Alcoholics Anonymous, or virtually any other 12-step programme.

Applied with scripture, the step takes on a new meaning. It extends far beyond the walls of an addiction; it reaches to the hearts of those who have never allowed themselves to experience a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. It also stands as a reminder to those who have wavered in their walk with Him, who have allowed sin to silently creep into their hearts, which in turn separates a person from the Lord.

Sin is dark; it's ugly, and nothing good abounds in it. God is calling His wavering child home. He wants us to crawl up into His lap so He can wrap His loving arms around us and restore that broken relationship. We can each ask ourselves, "Have I realized that I am powerless? Have I realized I've done everything I can do to fill that void in my life, only to fall short of the mark? Have I been broken?"

Are you broken?

Lamentations 3:40 – Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord. (NIV)

Prayer: Father in heaven, in my shortcomings, in my vain attempt to run my life my way, please forgive me. I ask that you take control of my life, my heart, my mind, my actions. Lord, allow me to hear that small voice behind me which says, "This is the way, now walk in it." In Your Son's name. Amen.