July 9: Day 9

STEP TWO CONTINUED: Come to believe that The Divine has no religion, is greater than religion, and can heal us from our hurts.

Instruction: Ask to be directed.

As we come to our lesson today, we may feel as if our world has been shaken by the knowledge that our Higher Power is separate from religion. Remember that we are not opposed to religion when it works to make us and the world a more loving and caring people and place, but when it divides us and causes strife among us, something has gone wrong. Love unites us. It reminds us that we are family.

Today we seek direction from our Higher Power. Having recognized that there is a difference between religion and spirituality, let us also determine that we will be spiritual beings first, and we will be true to the Spirit within us. Then, if we choose to supplement our spiritual life with a religious life, let us ask to be directed to a body of people who will support our spiritual decisions. Religious Recovery doesn’t make specific recommendations when it comes to finding a spiritual or religious support group. It is natural, however, for people to want recommendations and to seek advice, especially if they feel like they have chosen poorly in the past.

We might believe that by taking a poll and getting a general consensus we will be able to make good choices, but this is where today’s lesson becomes so valuable. We will be drawn to what we know and what we have experienced in the past. That isn’t always a good thing. What we need and what we think we want are often different, and in times like these, it is wise to ask for direction from The Divine. Even when we do this, it is often difficult to discern what direction The Divine is leading us in. A period of trial and error often ensues. We might find ourselves in a group that doesn’t meet our needs, but this could prove to be a detour that has meaning for us. Trust the process and remember that sometimes making a decision in the opposite direction could prove to be a good choice.

Many people will look for help from individuals or an individual. How do we know who is right for us? Determine the qualities you desire in a teacher, mentor, or spiritual coach and pay close attention to make sure the person you are drawn to has those qualities in their personal and professional life. Be sure to ask The Divine to guide you to the right person, too. Today’s assignment is to spend time in silence to listen to your heart. Try to discern if the ideas that come into your head are heart directed and not ego centered. Ask Divine Spirit for direction.