Jesse’s Journal – #10:
“I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.” (Psalm 119:32, KJV)
Like the psalmist who needed God to “enlarge his heart” before he could fully run in God’s ways, I’ve discovered that working Step 10 isn’t about waiting for perfection – it’s about growing in awareness right where I am. Though I’m currently on Step 4, I’ve learned that elements of Step 10 can enrich my recovery journey even now.
Rather than requiring a rigid, flawless system of self-examination, Step 10 invites us into a natural rhythm of honest reflection. Just as the psalmist’s enlarged heart enabled greater obedience, my growing awareness through simple daily actions – reaching out to program friends, checking in with my sponsor, or sharing authentically in meetings – helps me practice this vital principle.
Each small step of honest self-reflection expands my capacity for growth. As I continue working through the Steps, I pray for deeper understanding and willingness to improve. Most importantly, I trust God to guide me in developing a personal approach to daily inventory that fits my journey, just as He enlarges my heart to follow His path better.
How It Relates To You:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, KJV)
Like the psalmist who prayed, “Search me, O God, and know my heart,” you may find that inviting God into your daily inventory brings profound spiritual growth. Rather than seeing it as an intimidating examination, consider it a sacred invitation – a chance to let God’s loving insight reveal both your progress and areas for growth.
Just as the psalmist asked God to “try me, and know my thoughts,” your daily inventory becomes a partnership with God. As you develop this practice, you’ll discover God revealing your genuine thoughts and motives with gentleness and grace. Remember, when you pray, “Lead me in the way everlasting,” you acknowledge that God is both the examiner and the guide on your journey.
Reflection Questions:
- What parts of your daily inventory feel most challenging right now? What aspects come more naturally?
- How has doing a daily review, even imperfectly, helped you grow in your recovery journey?
- What progress have you noticed in your ability to be honest with yourself and others as you practice Step 10?
Scripture to Remember:
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, KJV)
Hebrews 4:12 shows us how God’s Word works like a spiritual X-ray, revealing what’s in our hearts. When we combine daily inventory with Scripture, we allow God’s truth to guide our self-reflection, helping us grow beyond surface-level change into true heart transformation. This partnership helps us live more authentically while addressing the core issues that affect our recovery.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for being so patient as I learn to take inventory of my daily life. I confess that I often seek perfection instead of progress. Please help me be honest with myself and others as I examine my daily actions and attitudes. Grant me the wisdom to see areas where I need to grow and the humility to acknowledge my shortcomings. Thank you for enlarging my heart to follow Your commandments.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
