May 24: Making Time for It
You might be wondering how long your Fifth Step will take, and whether you’ve set aside enough time.
“And the Israelites separated themselves from all foreigners and stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for a quarter of the day; for another quarter of it they made confession and worshiped the LORD their God.”
After the people of Israel returned from exile and rebuilt Jerusalem’s wall, they gathered for something remarkable. They separated themselves, stood, and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. For a quarter of the day, they read from the book of the law. For another quarter, they confessed and worshiped.
That’s hours. Standing. Reading. Confessing. They didn’t rush it. They knew something this important deserved real time.
Your Fifth Step deserves that too. It’s not a quick coffee. Depending on the length of your inventory, it can take a couple of hours, sometimes more. Some people split it into two sessions. That’s fine, as long as both sessions happen and nothing gets left for later.
A few practical things can help. Pick a time when you won’t be rushed. A morning off, a quiet afternoon, an evening with nothing after it. Choose a private place where you won’t be overheard or interrupted. Turn your phone off. Bring water. Bring your inventory, printed or written out.
If you use the Steps & Scripture app, you can export your inventory to bring with you, so you have it all in one place. Some people prefer their handwritten notebook. Either works.
Also plan for after. Many people find that a quiet hour alone afterward is important. Don’t schedule a meeting with your boss right after your Fifth Step. Give yourself room.
Notice that Israel’s confession was mixed with worship. They didn’t just list their sins. They praised God. Your Fifth Step can include that too. Many people start or end with prayer, thanking God for His mercy.
If you’re nervous about running out of things to say, or saying too much, don’t worry. Your listener will help guide the conversation. Your job is simply to read what you wrote and answer honestly when they ask a question.
One thing today
Look at your Step Five date. Block out at least three hours with nothing after it. Plan where you’ll meet, and make sure it’s private.
A prayer
Lord, help me give this step the time it deserves. Don’t let me rush through it to get it over with. Let my confession be mixed with worship and thanks. Amen.
Practical help for Step Five.
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