Another Year to Break the Bad

When I’m feeling offended or overwhelmed, Ms. Negativity very politely knocks on the door of my mind. If I fail to send her away immediately, she somehow finds her way inside my head. Once inside, she becomes extremely comfortable. Worse of all, she refuses to leave, and I become her captive.

What about you? Is there something you are doing that has become a bad habit? Read on.

First, take the quiz below. Answer “yes” or “no” to each of the four questions.

1. Is something you do a problem for someone else that you know well?
2. Does it adversely affect your health?
3. Do you feel guilty and shameful whenever you do it?
4. When you are not doing it, or you constantly thinking about it?

If you answered “Yes” to any one of the above questions, you could be battling a bad habit.

You Can Break That Bad Habit Forever! 

1. Awareness – “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.” Psalms 51:3

For most of us, our bad habits are obvious. For some of us, there is this thing called, “denial.” You took the quiz above. Now, have a serious talk with your loved ones. They will tell you the truth. Believe them.

2. Acknowledge – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Now that you are aware of your bad habit, admit the problem to God.  His response to you is:“Do you want to change?”  “Are you ready to change?” God will not force you or do it for you. But, He will absolutely lead and strengthen you for the task.

3. Action – “And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Luke 11:9

Make a plan to succeed. Memorize scripture to fight temptations. Pause before speaking that lie. Replace going out drinking with a trip to the gym. Avoid online pornography.

Start with your most serious problem. After you succeed, move on to another. One young person struggled with cocaine, alcohol, and cigarette addictions. First, she focused on the cocaine and alcohol addictions. After a year of being drug free, and sober, she was ready to stop smoking.

4. Educate -“Teach me knowledge and good judgement, for I trust in your commands.” Psalms 119:66

Start attending a Bible-centered church whose members demonstrate love and kindness. Read articles and books about how to stay healthy.

Unhealthy habits are outward signs of underlying emotional problems. You may need additional  help from your doctor, pastor, or support groups.

Finally, …
Transformation is a life-long journey. But remember, you are not alone with this problem. God’s Holy Spirit is always there with you. (John 14:16)

 

We love hearing from you. Please click here for questions or comments. Thanks. God bless!

 

 

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4 thoughts on “Another Year to Break the Bad

  1. This post speaks & ministered to my heart & soul!! It is possible to break any bad habit if you want to change. Thank you for this. It is very helpful!!!