In step four, we begin what are called or commonly referred to as the action steps. Once again, these steps are in the order they are for a reason. I cannot stress enough that being at step four strongly implies that I have applied myself thoroughly to the first three steps. I urge you not to become involved in these action steps until you have surrendered to your spirit, (i. e., God). The gift that is received with this step is the gift of Honesty. In order to be rigorously honest with myself, I need to have the knowledge and strength of God in my life. That knowledge and strength comes from the first three steps and my willingness to surrender my life to the wishes and direction of God.
This belief is absolutely important to my success with these 12 steps. The literature says that some of us fail due to an inability to be honest with ourselves. God shall give us this gift of Honesty, but I believe, only in relation to our willingness to surrender to Him.
