September 8: Listen to Advice First

There’s something on your list that could get you in legal trouble if it came out. Or something that could cost your family a lot. You want to do the right thing. But what is the right thing here?

Proverbs says to listen to advice and accept instruction, so you’ll be wise in the end. Many plans are in a person’s heart, but the Lord’s purpose will stand.

Some amends are simple. Others involve the law, serious money, or consequences for people who depend on you. These need wisdom. Not just courage.

Here’s a hard truth. Step Nine doesn’t let you off the hook because an amends is costly. Being willing to face consequences is part of the step. But Step Nine also says not to make amends in a way that injures others. If an amends could land you in prison and leave your kids without a parent, that affects them too. That’s not a decision to make alone.

So before you act on anything involving the law, talk it over with your sponsor or pastor. Pray about it together. In some cases, it may be wise to get legal advice too. Others have faced situations like yours and can help you think it through.

What you’re looking for is not a way out. You’re looking for the right way through. Sometimes that means facing serious consequences. Sometimes it means a careful, partial approach. Sometimes it means waiting for the right time. Wise counsel helps you see what you can’t see alone.

Notice the second part of the verse. Many plans are in your heart, but the Lord’s purpose stands. You can plan carefully and still trust that God is guiding. He knows what you’re facing.

Be honest with your sponsor or pastor. Tell them everything. Counsel only helps if they know the whole picture.

One thing today

If any amends on your list involves the law or serious consequences, write it down and set a time this week to talk it over with your sponsor or pastor. Don’t act on it before then.

A prayer

Lord, some of what I need to make right is complicated and frightening. Give me wise counsel. Make me willing to face what I need to face, and help me not hurt others in the process. Amen.

The Step Nine page explains why some amends need counsel first.

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