Holy Habits

Holy Habits

Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another.

Hebrews 10:25

The Amish have developed many habits that build their character and help them work efficiently. Here are a few:

The Amish waste no effort. They focus on the task at hand. If they are on the job site, they work hard—as a team—until the task is finished. Then they enjoy a meal together and visit. The Amish aren’t focused on what they can acquire or what will make them fit in. They have no need for strolling through malls or flipping through fashion magazines. The Amish stand by their reputation. They know their good name is one of their greatest possessions.

The Amish focus on people. They seek to create a connection, and they watch out for the needs of others. The Amish also are in the habit of meeting together—especially for worship, but also in homes or at community events.

These are great habits we, too, can acquire, but it’s a battle to get there, as this poem from the Amish magazine Family Life explains:

Goliath’s life then David took,

On the ancient hill above the brook;

A long time past and far away—

But are there giants in our day? . . .

Some habits bad, a selfish trait,

Or harmful thoughts of envy, hate;

And fears and worries, anger, pride,

Or something else we’d like to hide? . . .

If we but trust Him for His grace

’Twill be much easier to face

Those giants in our lives today,

For God will be our hope and stay!

What solid habits would you like to establish? Doing so may seem like a giant undertaking. But habits are built one choice at a time, and God is faithful to help you grow in holiness.

Dear heavenly Father, it’s so easy to focus on the giant, but help me to realize I can build a holy habit when I stay focused on You.