Breaking Bad Habits

"Don't let your sins turn into bad habits."  - Saint Teresa of Avila

There's an old saying about habits that goes like this: Bad habits are like comfortable beds—easy to get into but hard to get out of. Most of you who are reading this message would probably nod your head in approval. I think that this pretty much describes habits, especially "bad" ones.

A dictionary definition of "habit" is this: a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up. You can see that both the old adage and the definition follow the same line of thought; a bad habit is, or bad habits, are difficult behaviors to change. Notice I didn't say they are "impossible" to change, just challenging to do so (Galatians 5:16; 1 Corinthians 10:13).

The thing about bad habits when it comes to our relationship with God is that they tend to sneak up on us gradually. While this may be true of any bad habit in general, for our purposes here, let's focus on how bad habits take their toll on our spiritual connection with Him.

First, let me emphasize that God is very forgiving. He forgives you and I for our human frailties and quirks. At no time does He ever expect perfection from us; instead He offers mercy generously, and without any strings attached. It's a good thing, too. There's nothing that we could ever do that would cleanse our sins and make us right in His eyes. Thankfully, Jesus took care of that.

All of that being said, let's talk about some less than stellar habits we might fall into in regards to our interrelation with Our Savior. The most problematic of bad habits are caused by sin. What makes sin so difficult to deal with is that it all starts in your mind.

Let me lay this out for you. If a person is intent on stealing something, he carefully considers the object of desire. Then, he might devise a plan to obtain it. With his plan in place he takes it. Certainly, he could have stopped his sinful scheme at any point prior to carrying it out. But he didn't.

This is a good example of why the Bible directs us to renew our minds (Romans 12:2); think about good things (Philippians 4:8); and to meditate on the Word (Psalm 1:2). If not for His guidance on such matters we would be totally clueless; besides being lost in sin.

A lot of people struggle with what I have to say next. It's another very common obstacle (bad habit) blocking the path to a strong relationship with God. This involves a change in lifestyle. For instance, if you want to stop smoking, maybe try getting rid of the cigarettes and not buy anymore; seek help if you need it.

Perhaps you're struggling with sexual sin, discard any suggestive materials surrounding you; stop hanging out with others that struggle with the same sin (1 Corinthians 15:33); steer clear of the places and situations that tempt you.

No matter what, don't go at it alone. Here are some things you can try: Strike up relationships with more mature Christians who will encourage and support you (Galatians 6:2). Participate in prayer with them. Ask them to "check up on you" regularly, and be honest about your failures (James 5:16). Remember, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20).

Bad habits are hard to break, but nothing is impossible with God (Matthew 19:26). Don't just stop sinning—start doing what's right. And before too long, the good habits you establish will replace the sinful ones.

Scripture: Philippians 4:13; 1 John 1:9; James 5:16; Ephesians 4:27; 1 Corinthians 15:33

Prayer: Dear Lord, like the caring and loving Father You are, Your patient acceptance of me, even though my shortcomings are many; is always there along with your gracious forgivness of my sins. Thank you, Father. Amen

May your lives be blessed!

Mindy