Scripture:
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalms 139:23-24
Lesson:
The following list will help us explore the first half of some of the things that can prevent God from working effectively in our lives. Reading through it and searching your heart will help you as you work through your inventory.
Relationship with Others
Who has hurt you? Who have you been holding a grudge against or seeking revenge against? Are you jealous of someone else? (The answer to these questions would go in Section One of your inventory.) Who have you hurt? Who have you criticized or gossiped about? Have you justified your bad attitude by saying it is “their” fault? (The answer to these questions would go in Section Five of your inventory.)
Priorities in Life
After accepting Jesus Christ, in what areas of your life are you still not putting God first? What in your past is interfering with you doing God’s will? Your ambition? Pleasures? Job? Hobbies? Money? Friendships? Personal goals?
Attitude
Have you always complained about your circumstances? In what areas of your life are you ungrateful? Have you gotten angry and easily blown up at people? Have you been sarcastic? What in your past is causing you fear or anxiety?
Integrity
In what past dealings were you dishonest? Have you stolen things? Have you exaggerated to make yourself look better? In what areas of your past have you used false humility? Have you lived one way in front of your Christian friends and another way at home or at work?
Life Application:
This week, set aside focused time to work through your inventory using the provided questions. Reflect deeply on your relationships and priorities to identify any areas where you are not putting God first. This would also be a good time to meet with your sponsor to go over the questions regarding your past hurts, grudges, or areas where you may have criticized or gossiped about others. Ask your sponsor if they notice any patterns in your behavior, such as sarcasm, ungratefulness, or “false humility,” that you might be overlooking. Be honest about any past dishonesty or “double-living” between your Christian friends and your home or work life. Remember, the goal of this inventory isn’t to dwell on the past, but to clear the way for the incredible future and healing God has in store for you!
*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!
