Step 12:   Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of the steps,
we tried to carry this message to others and to practice
these principles in all our affairs.

December 17

Recommended reading: 1 John 4, 5 and 2 John

I went to visit a new mother and she asked me this question, “Why didn’t you tell me it would be like this?” Well, some experiences are simply indescribable.

That’s why I hesitate to tell people that using the twelve steps as a tool to draw near to God will dramatically change their lives. It’s hard to describe it and best if it’s experienced. I’m not referring to reading the twelve steps, listening to teachings about the twelve steps, or even reading a daily devotional focused on the twelve steps; I’m talking about living these principles—practicing them in all our affairs.

It isn’t the steps that change us; it is God. But these steps are a way to learn how to talk, listen, and respond to God. It’s possible to acquire knowledge but lack the relationship with God necessary to put the knowledge to good use. If you have some vague feeling of sleepiness, a general awareness of spiritual dullness, or a sensation of sleep walking through life, then test out the theory that you may have knowledge without experience. That’s a frustrating place to be. Trust me; I’ve been there. It’s okay to know this about ourselves, but it’s not okay to ignore this warning sign.

If this step sounds too good to be true, it’s not; it can be true for each of us. But if we’re not trying to carry, if we’re not practicing these principles, then there’s a good chance we’re having trouble staying awake spiritually.

Thought for today: He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. Psalm 106:15

Thought for tomorrow: Spiritual restlessness can mean that God is preparing to move us in some way. Perhaps we’re going to learn something about Him, discover something untapped within ourselves, and be sent on a new grand epic adventure—all good stuff. But spiritual restlessness can also be a warning sign much like those pesky lights on the dashboard of our cars. The lights are annoying, but if we let them blink unheeded, a slight annoyance can grow into an expensive problem. Another question I like to ask myself (although I sometimes don’t like the answer I receive back), “Am I practicing these principles in all my affairs, or am I merely going through the motions?”

December 17
Teresa McBean

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Other links: www.crosswalk.com &  NACR Online