In the Register and Tribune Syndicate, Frank Clark writes:
Years ago when the western U.S. was being settled, roads were often just wagon tracks. These rough trails posed serious problems for those who journeyed on them. On one of these winding paths was posted a sign which read: “Avoid this rut or you’ll be in it for the next 25 miles!”
A habit is something you can do without thinking–which is why most of us have so many of them.
A habit is one of the components that shapes and molds our character.
I remember hearing that from a thought you have an action, from an action comes a habit, from the habit comes a character, and from the character is a destiny.
What are some of the habits that you have that are currently shaping your character and ultimately leading you to a certain destiny?
- What about your words? Words show what’s in a person’s heart. Does your speech indicate a heart of purity, mercy, kindness, love, and holiness? Or, are your words vulgar, constantly critical, hateful and ungodly? The Bible says, “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment” (Mt. 12:36).
- What about your body? When we think of bad habits, we often refer to things like smoking, drinking, and drugs. While, these are certainly bad habits, they’re not the only bad ones that have a negative impact on the physical body. We often shy away from discussing poor eating habits and lack of physical activity, out of fear of offending. But the reality is, when we overeat and sit all day, we’re not doing our body any favors. The Bible teaches that bodily exercise is profitable (1 Tm. 4:8), and that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19).
- What about your spirit? Are you engaging your soul in practices that will strengthen your Christian character? Do you read your Bible daily (Acts 17:11)? Are you regular with your prayer life (1 Thes. 5:17)? Do you assemble as often as humanly possible with your brethren for worship, Bible study, and fellowship (Acts 2:42-47)?
Horace Mann said, “Habit is a cable; we weave a thread of it every day, and at last we cannot break it.”
Today, what threads will you weave that will shape who you will ultimately become and where you will eventually go?
I hope you have a totally awesome day!
–Neil Richey