Expressions of faith: Abstaining from habits

Bishop-Elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr. reflects on abstaining from habits, self-control, and spiritual growth through faith, discipline, and new life in Christ.

Picture of Bishop-elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr.

Bishop-elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr.

Bishop-Elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr.

“Abstain from every form of evil,” 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22. God is looking for us to abstain from that which is not like Him. You will need a deliberate act of refraining from sin that will see you begin your new life in Christ. Practicing abstinence from sin means consciously restraining oneself from partaking in negative physical behaviors regarding health, moral, of personal substances.

Refrain from alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Observe a diet from food that is unhealthy, i.e., to a point of fasting.

Intimacy: Refrain from engaging in sexual activity to prevent ‘Sexually Transmitted Infections’ (STIs).

Concentrate on the right outcomes to see results in your life—something of a progressive overload. There is growth in your life when you have moved from a place of lack to the place of ‘victory.’

Track your progress. Measure your increases, track your strength, and see an improvement in your new life.

Practicing self-control is framed as a spiritual fruit and a transformation to a renewal in life and mind—leading to a life of discipline. You have to put on the new self (Romans 12:1-2).

Growth requires action.“Put off the old corrupt self and put on the new self,” Ephesians 4:22-24.

Focus on building good habits and eliminate bad ones. We are moving into a relationship with God where we are heavily influenced by new lifestyles.

“Bad company corrupts good morals,” 1 Corinthians 15:3.

There are specific types of habits you must address be it physical, mental, or relationship-based.

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