5 - STEP FOUR
We find ourselves now at Step 4, taking a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
James 1:19-22
19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. NIV
In the AA recovery book many refer to as the big book, the authors tell us resentment is the "number one" offender. Interesting that James tells us, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Whether many know it or not, the AA book is based on Biblical principles and we are told throughout Scripture that anger will get us into trouble.
James goes on to say, get rid of all moral filth and evil. Let's look at the context of James' theology. He writes to all the tribes scattered among the nations - that would be everyone. He's writing about keeping oneself in God's word, following it closely and living obediently. What happens when we stray from the course? We find ourselves wandering in dark allies, chasing after our lusts and falling into the ways of the world. Go back and read How it Works again. you cannot read this chapter too much or too often.
What then is the result? We start blaming others for all our troubles. It's a wicked and deadly game we play and we must put an end to it if we are to get well.
So we must set pen to paper and look deep within our hearts, asking God to reveal in us everything that hinders our walk with Jesus. We begin with resentments - reliving feelings of hurt and anger for life's injustices.
Who am I angry at? Why? How does it affect me?
What was my part? This is the hardest part of this exercise. If somebody abused me, how can that be my fault? How can I have a part in that? Dig deep. Pray. God will reveal it to you. This is a searching and fearless moral inventory.
We look at our fears. I hide behind my addiction because of fear. What am I afraid of? Who am I afraid of? How does it affect me? We pray and ask God to remove our fears, relying on His strength to help us overcome whatever impedes our recovery.
Finally, the issue of sex must be dealt with. This for Christians may be the most difficult area to face. But face it we must or we shall die in our addictions. Get rid of all moral filth and evil, says James. Let's look at some ways we might be off track in our Christian walk:
Flirting
Lust
Adultery
Promiscuity
Dressing inappropriately
Language
Innuendo
Television and movie choices
Books
Self indulgence
Dancing inappropriately
Going to bars or other places of temptation
Voyeurism
Dirty jokes
Jealousy
Withholding from my spouse
Using for power or control of another person
Over use of make up
Fantasy
How do I present myself in public? On the Internet? With my words?
I'm sure you can think of others. Dig deep. Be honest. How have you behaved inappropriately and how has it affected your life? Other People?
Father, You are holy and powerful, yet merciful and loving. We confess we've strayed far from you in our anger, fear and lust. Lord, we submit our hearts before You and beseech You to reveal every dark corner that needs cleaning. Purify us by the blood of Jesus that washes away our sins. Restore us to sanity that we might once again turn to You alone for our satisfaction, to relieve all anger, fear and unholy desire. Help us to etch Your word on our hearts to call on in our times of need. Holy Spirit, may we listen to Your prompting to be free of self, willing to serve others according to Your purposes. In Jesus' name, amen.
