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What does the Bible say about habits?
Great question! Here's the answer:
The Bible doesn’t say anything about habits specifically; however, we are told we need to change our old way of life in order to follow Jesus (Romans 12:2).
All of us have some kind of habit that we do. Whether it be sucking your thumb or biting your nails, a habit is a pattern of behavior that often happens automatically. Some habits are good habits, and some are bad habits. Throughout the Bible, we are told that we need to take off the old self and put on the new self (Ephesians 4:22–24). Any bad habits that we used to practice, we don't need to do anymore.
For instance, if you have the habit of grumbling or mumbling when you are upset, leave this habit behind. The Bible is clear that we should do everything without grumbling or complaining so that we shine like stars in the sky (Philippians 2:14–15). Regardless of what bad habits we struggle with, we can change the way we think and take every thought captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Some habits are good, such as eating healthy, drinking plenty of water, and exercising. These types of habits we should keep up. Being kind, forgiving others, and respecting our parents are also habits we should hold on to throughout our lives. Bad habits, like lying, disrespecting your parents, being mean, and being unforgiving should not be practiced (1 Corinthians 6:19–10; Ephesians 5:18). Allow the Holy Spirit to help you develop good habits and to transform you into a true follower of God.
Bible Truth
“Don’t live the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you. And you will agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
“Don’t lie to one another. You have gotten rid of your old way of life and its habits. You have started living a new life. Your knowledge of how that life should have the Creator’s likeness is being made new” (Colossians 3:9–10).
“I destroy every claim and every reason that keeps people from knowing God. I keep every thought under control in order to make it obey Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
