Lamentations 3:40,  "Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord."

Think

"What we cover, God uncovers. What we uncover, God covers!" When we make the decision to finally do something about our dysfunction, we may find ourselves unsure of how to get free from the character stumps that obstruct us. We've learned about some crucial steps:  admitting that we can't change on our own and stepping into His will for our lives. While these steps are vital, God still wants us to experience more. He knows there are still things that impede our progress and keep us stuck in dysfunction. And in order to discover what those things are, we have to be willing to dive beneath the surface of the murky waters of life. Diving into those murky waters can be frightening. Let's face it, it's much easier to point out the problems in someone else's life and remain in denial about our own. But the reward of moving beyond the obstruction that has been stopping us can be life-changing. Self-examination is never easy, but it's always beneficial. God has a life of freedom, peace and contentment waiting for us that can't be experienced when we remain stuck on the character stumps of life. Be courageous and do an honest self-examination. The benefits are worth it!

Act

Look at the list of seven character stumps Pastor Ed spoke about this weekend:  pride, envy, anger, lust, greed, gluttony, and slothfulness. Which one(s) do you need to address first? Now, call a trusted friend or counselor and allow them to pray with you and help you.

Pray

Heavenly Father, thank You for preparing a life of freedom, peace, and contentment for me. I want to experience that life, but I need Your help. Give me courage to dive into the murky waters of my life and help me examine them honestly. And when I feel as though I'm going to drown, remind me that You are always with me and will never leave me. In Jesus' name, Amen.