Overcoming a Bad Habit

As we’ve moved through this study, you may have already identified an area where you’d like to develop more self-control. Maybe it’s in your eating habits, your temper, your patience, or your time spent online. Whatever it is, the Bible says you’ve got this! (Philippians 4:13)

Maybe you’ve already tried in your own strength and failed. Maybe even a few times. But God never asked us to try to do things on our own. He’s here to help!

Whether it’s speaking before you think, criticizing others or overeating, God’s power in you will never fail. It will enable you to overcome ungodly habits and fleshly tendencies that, on your own, you’ve been powerless to resist. As you yield to the Holy Spirit, you will mature in the Lord to the point where you don’t even want to do those things anymore! 

Until then, whenever you’re tempted to eat that container of ice cream or tell someone off at the store, stop and take the time to get yourself in line. Speak out loud and say, “No, spirit of temptation, I resist you in Jesus’ Name. I will not take the bait, and I will not lose control. I have the fruit of self-control growing strong in me, and I have control over my actions!”

No person (or carton of ice cream) should ever have more control over your words and actions than you! God has given you the supernatural power to be in control of yourself. It’s time to use it!