Step 9: “ Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.”
Devotion:
Before we continue into Step 9, let’s pause and reflect on the journey Jesus has been leading us through.
The purpose of these steps has never been simply recovery. It has always been a deeper relationship with Jesus and others.
Each step has invited us to answer an important question:
Step 1: Can I admit I need help? The LORD is my Shepard.
Step 2: Can I believe the LORD can restore me? Jesus is my Hope.
Step 3: Will I trust the LORD with my life? Jesus is my Lord.
Step 4: Will I let the LORD show me the truth? Jesus reveals my heart.
Step 5: Will I bring my whole life into His light? Jesus welcomes honest confession.
Step 6: Am I willing to let Him change me? Jesus transforms willing hearts.
Step 7: Will I humbly depend on Him every day? Jesus gives grace to the humble.
Step 8: Who has been affected by my life? Jesus teaches me to love others.
Now Jesus asks one final question before we move into Step 9:
Step 9: Will I love others as He has loved me?
Making amends is not simply about repairing the past. It is about allowing the love of Christ to become visible through our lives.
As Jesus has walked faithfully with us, He now sends us to walk faithfully with others.
Biblical Example:
Before Jesus sent His disciples to serve others, He first walked with them, taught them, forgave them, and loved them. Only after they experienced His love did He send them to share it with the world.
We cannot give away what we have not first received.
Reflection Questions
1. Which question has Jesus used most to change my heart?
2. Am I ready to let His love become visible through my relationships?
Action Step:
Take a few moments to thank Jesus for how He has faithfully walked with you through each step.
Ask Him to prepare your heart for Step 9, remembering: The closer we walk with Him, the more His love becomes visible through us.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for walking beside me through every step of this journey. Thank You for meeting me in my weakness, restoring my hope, leading my life, revealing my heart, and teaching me to love. As I prepare for Step 9, help me become a reflection of Your grace and reconciliation. May others see Your love in me and be drawn closer to You. In Your name, Amen.
Bible Scripture to consider
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”— John 13:34–35 (NIV)
