As another year comes to an end – it’s important to take time to reflect on all God has done, and will do, in your life – and in the world.
And as you gear up for a fresh start – it’s crucial to leave the baggage of the past behind.
So, with another God-given opportunity to “get it right” and become more like Him – here are 3 bad habits you’ll want to be sure you leave behind as you ring in the new year.
Envy
Most of us at some point or another have wanted something someone else has.
The danger is if this becomes a pattern, we can develop a spirit of ungratefulness, and the sin of envy can take over and wreak havoc on our lives.
Instead of living the life God intended for us, we may spend time chasing the dreams and aspirations of others – or trying to live up to “their standard” instead of God’s.
Think back to the Old Testament – Cain envied Abel… and killed him!
Esau envied Jacob and traded his birthright for just one meal.
Envy never ends well – so if you find yourself envious or jealous of another – lay it at the foot of the cross and don’t take it into the new year.
Overspending
The economy is rough – and it’s estimated nearly half of Americans depend on their credit card to cover daily living essentials.
That coupled with advertisers wooing folks to buy the latest “upgrade” has led people to spend money they don’t have and put themselves in massive debt.
And with 83 percent of Americans owning at least one credit card – one can see how tempting it is to keep “charging” your card to satisfy the latest desire for more.
But as Christians we know all money belongs to God – and we are merely His stewards of it.
Make it a pledge in the new year to get out of debt – and stop buying things you can’t afford.
And if you are well-off – God did not bless you with this fortune so you can simply spend it on yourself and live a life of comfort while ignoring those who are suffering around you.
In addition – pray for a way you can spend your resources to help advance His kingdom. `
Overeating
People typically think of addictions in terms of drugs or alcohol – but addiction to food can be just as deadly.
It’s estimated roughly 41 percent of Americans struggle with obesity.
While there are some medical conditions and complications that contribute to this – the general cause is eating carb-heavy, sugary, processed foods.
Americans eat more than ever – with our portion sizes being some of the largest in the world.
And oftentimes people turn to food, instead of God when they’re coping with a difficult situation.
The good news is Jesus has promised to help us with our struggles if we reach out to Him.
If you struggle with overeating – commit to the spiritual discipline of fasting – or talk to a counselor to see how you can get back on track and be a good steward of your body.
Regardless of which bad habit you struggle with – remember you aren’t alone.
We all have temptations and personal obstacles we must overcome – but the best news of all is that Jesus has given us everything we need to fight our fleshly desires.
So walk in the freedom of Christ – and have a Happy New Year!
Which of these bad habits do you struggle with?
Are you committed to starting fresh in the new year?
You can post your answers to our Facebook page and join in the conversation with other believers worldwide.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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