Pathways Press.com

Written by Dawn Wilson, a contemporary author, publisher,  and director of Heart Choices Today.

To change our future, we must address bad habits. Good intentions aren’t enough. Changing habits is an ongoing work of God’s grace and requires our humble obedience. We observe what holds us back from pleasing and honoring the Lord. We learn to align our choices and behavior with Scripture. We heed the conviction and nudging of the Holy Spirit. Essentially, as author Priscilla Shirer says in the book Gideon, with God’s help we can “choose to convert our good intentions into obedient actions.” Perhaps instead of “change,” it would be clearer to say “exchange.” Years ago, a teacher taught me the “Replacement Principle.” It is biblical, he said, to chuck things that are foolish, unhealthy, and unholy, then cultivate habits that are wise, healthy, and godly. In our ongoing sanctification—God making us more like Christ—our part is to “put off” and “put on,” to put off evidence of the old self and put on the character of the new self. Imagine experiencing peace by putting off anger and bitterness, and putting on kindness and learning to forgive (Ephesians 4:22-32). Imagine the freedom in putting off immoral behavior and harmful addictions, and putting on self-discipline and holiness (1 Corinthians 6:9-20). That surely would change our future!

Prayer:

Written by Joyce Meyer, a contemporary author, speaker, and head of Joyce Meyer Ministries.

“Father, You know everything about me, and I can only begin to develop healthy new habits with Your help and strength. Please show me where to start. I ask You to direct my steps and uncover the things that I need to see about myself. Thank you so much for Your grace to change and make good choices for my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.”