A Prayer About Habits

When I need to break bad practices

SPIRIT OF GOD,

A friend implied that I had developed some bad habits, harmful to me and to my relationship with you. My first response was denial. Then I made excuses, rationalizing my behavior as normal and expected, especially for someone in my situation. But I was just trying to convince myself; I certainly fooled no one else. Seeing another person’s problem is easy—it’s obvious. However, I was blind to my own issues and shortcomings. I know that the start is simply realizing where I am, and I do. I have a problem, Lord, and I need your help. Just determining and trying to be different may work for a short time but won’t accomplish much long term. I need to break my old and current routines and establish new, positive habits that bring me closer to you. Please, Holy Spirit, continue to change my desires, and help me see what new steps I should take. Then, give me the commitment and courage to take them. And, I pray, please keep bringing friends alongside me who will encourage me and hold me accountable.

Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:12-13