Christianity

Step 7: Humbly asked God to remove our propensity to sin.

Principle: Humility

At first, change is difficult; this is true for everyone. The first step in the change process is willingness to change. This step is based on humility, because at the core of this practice, is the realization that we can't do it alone. We need the support of others who understand, we need a path of practices like the 12 Steps, and we need to know that the strength we require comes from the indwelling Presence of God. Our personal transformation will only happen if we learn to ask for help: from others, and from God through the words and intentions of our prayers. Through prayer we ask for our needs, for the Highest and best good for all concerned, and we express gratitude for these and all the gifts we have received from His bounty and grace.

Text or Verse

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you.
John 15:7

And whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.
John 14:13-14

Practice

Create a Personal prayer:

Select one of the un-Christlike behaviors you have committed to change.
Determine what new behavior you want to adopt in its place.
Write a prayer, in your own conversational language, stating the change you want to be.
Pray the prayer daily for 30 days, then evaluate your progress with your sponsor, mentor, prayer partner, minister or spiritual director.

Resources

Rohr, Richard OFM. How Do We Breathe Underwater? The Gospel and 12-Step Spirituality. Center for Action and Contemplation. (go to the Links menu to connect to the web-site)

Dick B. The Good Book and the Big Book. A.A.'s Roots in the Bible. Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1997

Selby, Saul. Twelve Step Christianity. Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2000