How to Defeat Harmful Habits (Counseling Through the Bible Series) (7 page)

Though the details of your life will differ from Michael Vick’s, like him, most of us become adept at justifying our negative habits. So proficient are we at rationalizing that undesirable habits can remain hidden—even from ourselves!

So, consider this probing question: Is there a habit that has mastery over you? According to God’s Word, “Sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14).

How can you know whether you have a destructive habit or a hidden addiction controlling you?

Desire to be accountable before God and take an honest look at your thoughts and actions. Ask yourself whether you have any habits or desires that would cause you to answer
yes
to the following questions:

T
HE
H
ARMFUL
H
ABIT
C
HECKLIST

“Are my thoughts consumed with it?”

“Is my time scheduled around it?”

“Could my health be harmed by it?”

“Does my guilt increase because of it?”

“Are my finances affected by it?”

“Am I defensive when asked about it?”

“Are my relationships hurt by it?”

“Am I upset when I can’t do it?”

“Is my spiritual growth hindered by it?”

“Have I been asked to stop it?”

“Would I discourage my children from doing it?”

“Do I hide it from others?”

“Would Jesus avoid doing it?”