This week we are learning how our habits can either be a help or hinderance to us. We are not listing individual habits but looking at the results of our choices in developing habits. Some habits are good and some are not so good; everyone knows that.

However, problems arise when we do not discern the importance of each habit in our everyday life. Another problem is the fact that a habit enables us to do something without really thinking about it. One might think that would be good, but doing something so automatic can produce the problem of not remembering that they even did something! Such as, IF they closed the garage door when they left home; or which isle they parked their car at the grocery store and then have trouble finding it! Yes, we have all been there. We need to monitor our habits to be fully aware of what we are doing. Good habits usually bring good results in our lives while bad habits usually bring not-so-good results in our lives. It’s that simple.

Let’s look at what bad habits will give us. According to Proverbs 10:4, a person who is slack in their ways, lazy, or slothful, their life is filled with poverty. They may desire to be, to do, and have better things but are not willing to do the work to reach their desires. They lack diligence, persistence, perseverance, and self-discipline.

Good habits are described in Proverbs 12:24, that the hand of the diligent will rule. Joshua 1:8 gives instructions to meditate in the Word day and night, so we will observe (obey) it – for then we make our way prosperous and will have good success. Sounds like good advice. When we know the Word of God, we know what is available to us through our faith in the Word.

This is why it’s important to teach our children at a young age the importance of good habits: like brushing their teeth, taking baths, taking responsibility for cleaning their room, and even helping to get ready for family activities. We also need good spiritual habits too. Such as reading and learning Scripture, having quiet time before the Lord to listen for His voice. God wants to talk with us but we must make room for Him in our lives. Learn to listen for His voice. Set time aside for individual prayer times with Him.

It is totally up to us whether we have a close relationship with God. It’s our decision to put Him first place in our lives. If we love God, we will want to spend time with Him. If we love God, we will want to read and obey His Word. If we love God, we will want to pray, and if we love God, we will love others.

Scripture tells us how to purposefully develop good habits: by giving attention to His words; and not letting them depart from our eyes; and keeping them in the midst of our heart (Proverbs 4:20-21). When we keep His Word before us, we will retain it and keep it (Proverbs 4:4).

Another great benefit of a close relationship with the Lord is given in John 15:7, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” I love that. It assures us that our prayers are not just heard but answered when we abide in Him. Spending time in the Word and with our Lord is abiding in Him, and leads us to pray in agreement with His Word. God is faithful to His Word.

I encourage you to develop good habits of praising and worshiping God for all He has done for you through Jesus Christ. I encourage you develop good spiritual habits like Bible reading, prayer times, and learning the Word so you can live in obedience to His Word and enjoy your relationship with our Jesus, our Savior.