For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.” Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, “THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.” However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, “HE WHO PRACTICES THEM SHALL LIVE BY THEM.” ~ Galatians 3:10-12, The Lockman Foundation. New American Standard Bible - NASB 1995
Most of us sense that real tolerance of other people’s shortcomings and viewpoints and a respect for their opinions are attitudes which make us more useful to others. Our very lives, as ex-problem drinkers, depend upon our constant thought of others and how we may help meet their needs. ~ A.A. World Services Inc. Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition . A.A. World Services, Inc.. Kindle Edition.
What does God want of me?
It feels like sometimes there's no way out.
If I try to follow the law --
God's laws or,
with self-reliance,
avoiding the pull of addiction,
I'm boxed in with no way
to find the proper path.
But I'm not on my own.
God's here, ready, willing,
to direct my steps,
Upper Class Steps or lower case!
When working the Twelve Steps
or taking that next right step,
in either case (pun intended)
I'm not on my own.
God, I offer myself to Thee,
– to build with me
and to do with me as Thou wilt.
Relieve me of the bondage of self,
that I may better do Thy will.
Take away my difficulties,
that victory over them
may bear witness to those I would help
of Thy Power,
Thy Love,
and Thy Way of Life.*
*Third Step Prayer
