Scripture:
“Come now, let us settle the matter,’ says the LORD. ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” Isaiah 1:18
Lesson:
The inventory is divided into five sections. This will keep you focused on reality and recall events that you may have repressed. Remember, you are not going through this alone. You are developing your support team to guide you and growing in your relationship with Jesus Christ!
Section One: Who Hurt Me?
List the person or institution who hurt you. An institution can be a church, government, or medical establishment. This could also be a chronic illness that you have been dealing with as well.
Section Two: What Happened?
List what happened when the person or institution hurt you. It is important to be specific about these actions.
Section Three: How Did You Feel?
List two or three emotions on how this action made you feel. It is important to acknowledge your emotions. These emotions affect what we believe, which, in turn, directly affects our behavior and habits. If we cannot express how we feel or how we were hurt, then we cannot heal.
Section Four: What was the Damage?
List what the damage was. This includes any beliefs you might have developed as a result. How you’ve been hurt directly affects what you think or believe about yourself, others, or God. These beliefs are our hang-ups.
Section Five: What was/What is My Part?
Now it’s time to see what part you have played. This is where we start looking inward. Write what your part was and list all the people whom you have hurt and how you have hurt them.
Please Note: If you have been in an abusive relationship, especially as a small child, you can find great freedom in this part of the inventory. You see that you had NO part, NO responsibility for the cause of the resentment. By writing “none” or “not guilty,” you can begin to be free from the misplaced shame and guilt you have carried with you.
Life Application:
Keep these principles in mind as you work through your inventory:
- Pray Continually: Pray before, during, and after your work. Ask God to reveal what needs to be brought into the light for healing.
- Build Support: Ensure you have a sponsor or accountability partners walking alongside you through each section.
- Maintain Balance: Include both the good and the bad to keep your inventory balanced.
- Pace Yourself: Don’t try to complete this in one sitting. Take your time with each section.
God desires a close relationship with you and wants you to become the best version of yourself to fulfill His purpose for your life. This inventory is a step toward that goal!
*Celebrate Recovery meets Tuesday nights at the McVay Family Center in New Sharon. This is a safe place to find honesty, hope, and healing. The meal starts at 6 pm, and a lesson/testimony begins at 6:30 pm. Childcare is provided for kids 12 and under. Hope to see you there!
