Wealthy

TRUTH

Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love.

James‬ ‭2‬:‭5

REFLECTION

It used to seem like a cop-out when I’d hear things like this. Like it was something unsuccessful people could say to feel good about themselves.

As I’ve lived through addiction and now sobriety long enough to reflect on both parts of it, I can see the truth more clearly.

It’s about what I give my heart to.

This is still my choice. I can freely give my heart and desire to anything. It happens in baby steps daily.

I look sideways and begin to meander off course one day at a time.

And if I’m not course correcting daily, I find myself drifting in new currents that quickly take me further and further from the beam.

I need a daily reminder that if I’m to be effective in this life, I must empty myself of attachment to it.

This is not a banishment from it, but permission to embrace the loving perspective that is above it.

It’s also not an excuse to dismiss responsibility or relationship. It’s the means by which I can dive deeper into serving and growing closer to my fellows.

It’s about first things first.

When I’ve put myself first, I’ve slipped inward and turned to whatever would gratify the next hit of dopamine.

When I’ve put God and others first, I’ve drunk from the cool, endless waters of the Spirit.

It’s not a cure-all for my thinking. I can still be distracted by the very real concerns of this world.

But as I grow more practiced, it does become easier to return to simple truths in times of trouble.

I am a child of God, and at best a vessel for His love to flow through.

God, free me from comparison.

SPONSOR

Progress & Perfection is written on Notion, the happier workspace. I’ve been using Notion to organize these daily writings since December 2023. Try Notion now.

NEXT

When you’re ready, here are some tools for you:

1. Book List (amazon link)
   Some of my favorite reads related to recovery and/or wrestling with faith.

2. 4th Step Guide (free download)
   A PDF with instructions and worksheets for a thorough 4th step. Straight from the Big Book. Fearlessness not included.

3. 12-Step Christianity (YouTube)
   My thoughts on the parallels between discipleship and sponsorship.

KEEP LEANING FORWARD

Cheers, Eamonn
Contact on LinkedIn, YouTube & Twitter.