A Single Step
“Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” HEBREWS 12:1
I can remember being at a point when I knew my life was spinning out of control. I knew there were a lot of things I needed to change. But I didn’t want to alter my current lifestyle too much. So I looked for ways to get some help without having to make drastic changes. I attended some secular meetings, for example, but didn’t really commit to their programs. Then when nothing happened, I would say, “Why isn’t this working? Maybe God doesn’t love me. Maybe I don’t deserve to change.”
The truth is, I didn’t need one more thing to cram into my messed-up life. What I needed was something to replace my messed-up life. I needed to let go of my old life and hand it over to God. I finally did that and now, twenty years later, I can’t imagine why it took me so long to do something so right and true and amazing.
A race begins with a single step, and so does recovery. The only way to run with perseverance is to hang on to God’s hand and let him take the lead. True change comes only when we die to ourselves and allow Christ to set the pace.
PRAYER
Father God, thank you for taking charge of my mess and helping me run my race with confidence. You are responsible for everything I am and ever hope to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
(From the book “CelebrateRecovery” Daily Devotional by John Baker, Johnny Baker & Mac Owen)
