Day One: Bringing It All to the Altar
Ever since college, I've been struggling with some unhealthy habits.
I curse like a sailor, drink more than I'd like to admit, and have taken to vaping to cope with stress. I need to stop – I want to stop, but going cold turkey is a struggle. So, I'm turning to Jesus, praying that if I lay my problems on the altar, he will send his Holy Spirit to guide me away from addiction and into holiness, fellowship, and flourishing.
In 1 Corinthians 10:13, the Word of God says that "No temptation has seized us that isn't common for people. But God is faithful. He won't allow us to be tempted beyond our abilities. Instead, with the temptation, God will also supply a way out so that we will be able to endure it."
Up until now, God has always been a last resort. Although I attend and work at a Seminary school, my relationship with God has been somewhat superficial, conditional, and flaky, which is probably why I haven't been bearing much fruit or living up to my full potential. That ends today.
Through consistent prayer and focus, we can crawl out of the dark strongholds that keep us in bondage. God is always standing ready and able to deliver us from our sins, but we must repent, turn away from our sins, and run in God's direction – not looking back, but pushing forward to God's redemptive gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.
It's time to be honest with ourselves and one another about who we are and what we're facing, so that we can hold each other accountable and support one another through these challenging times.
It's time for us to sit in God's presence and cultivate an intimate relationship with Him. For me, that process may require spilling my guts onto the worldwide web, hoping my weaknesses don't fall into the wrong hands. For others, you might find peace in a quiet room or bathroom stall.
Whatever the means, I'm grateful God is gracious enough to meet us where we are. He hears our cries and welcomes our truth. God stands ready as the Heavenly Potter, who molds us back into righteousness.
So, here's to day one of getting on the wheel. As we strive to remain in God, let’s do so, avoiding temptation, forgetting what's behind us, and running to the altar as our first resort.
Reflect:
What unhealthy habits are you bringing to the altar of prayer this week?
How can you cast off the shame that keeps you in bondage?
What steps can you take today to repent and move towards God?
Act:
Open the notes app on your laptop and write a letter addressing God. Confess your sins to Him, ask for wisdom, strength, and courage to fight your addictions.
Engage in a deep breathing exercise by inhaling for four counts, holding your breath for four counts, and exhaling for four counts. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change,
the courage to change the things we can,
and the wisdom to know the difference.
As we bring our unhealthy habits to the altar of prayer, we seek Your strength and guidance to overcome them. Help us to embrace the peace that comes from trusting in You, and to find the courage to face the challenges ahead.
Remind us that while we cannot change everything, we can lean on God for the wisdom and strength needed to move forward in our journey towards healing and growth.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
