July 8

Habits

Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

Romans 12:9b

We are creatures of habit. Good habits have to be developed, while bad habits form without effort and are not easily broken. There are simple habits like good personal hygiene, such as brushing your teeth and washing your hands. Other habits, such as regular church attendance, daily devotions, and continuous heartfelt worship, praise, and

Prayer, contribute to our spiritual well-being. Loving responses, deeds of kindness, and edifying speech are godly habits characteristic of the Spirit-filled life.

We may not be enslaved to sinful habits like smoking, drinking intoxicating beverages, or using illicit drugs, but what about habits like evil speaking, bitterness, unforgiving attitudes, wrong thoughts, or gluttony? Such habits are also wrong and displeasing to God.

Do you find yourself struggling with a habit that may be causing you spiritual defeat? Praise God, there is victory and freedom in Christ through His shed blood. Here are some suggestions that may help you gain the spiritual victory God desires.

1. Truly repent of and confess all known sin.

2. Confide in someone you can trust, and make yourself accountable to that person until you are free.

3. Be honest and open with others about your temptations and struggles. We need the prayers and encouragement of fellow saints. We need each other in our pilgrimage to heaven.

4. Do not neglect your devotional life. Spend time daily with God and His Word. Fasting is a helpful practice, along with earnest prayer.

5. Claim the promises of God’s Word.

6. Put on the whole armor of God. “Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.”

We are in a spiritual warfare. God has made every provision for our victory if we do our part by meeting the conditions of His Word. Through the power of Jesus, we can be “more than conquerors.”

Mark Kropf, Cataldo, ID

O victory in Jesus, my Savior, forever.

—Eugene M. Bartlett, 1939

Bible Reading: Romans 6

One Year Bible Reading Plan:

Acts 15:1–21

Job 38, 39

Used by Permission of Vision Publishers

PO Box 190, Harrisonburg, VA  22803

Phone:  877-488-0901

E-Mail:  [cs@vision-publishers.com]