Habits of Holiness

Every sin we commit reinforces the habit of sinning and makes it easier to sin. Habits play a very forceful role as external influences on our actions. Repeated acts of sin make us slaves to sin. But Paul tells us to put off our old self and put on the new; with its character and habits of holiness. Breaking bad habits must be done in cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Sheer willpower rarely works.

Make saying no to a sin a habit. Over and over as you’re tempted, say no. The more often you do it the easier it will get. You can also develop the habit of thinking good thoughts, of praying, of reading the Bible. But it will take frequent repetition.

During this time you have to be careful not let an exception occur. No “just this once” type of thinking! I know people who have gained weight on a diet thinking this! “Tomorrow will be different.” Actually tomorrow will be more difficult if you give in today!

But, also don’t be discouraged if you fail. There’s a difference between failing and failure. Failure is when you give up. God expects us to pick ourselves up and keep trying.