How predictable is your daily routine? Are there some things that you do most every day that are so ingrained in your nature, you don’t even have to think about doing them? My morning routine getting my oldest son up and ready for school is fairly predictable for him and myself, so that we don’t normally forget anything. Other routines at home and work can be fairly similar sometimes as well, when we find a system that works well for us. There are also likely some things in our lives that we may not be proud of and these ‘bad habits’ tend to develop over time as well. Are there any habits or roles that you would like to change in your daily routine?
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Most habits start out of necessity, or a strong desire to get something done. There are things we have to do before going to work, and we try to develop a routine that works well with that. There may be a new commitment or something that we really want to add to our lives and we find a way to make it fit in our schedules. I’ve been trying to check in with some friends and acquaintances more often, so I put these things down on my electronic calendar/phone to remind myself to do those things, since they are not habits yet. Reminders and accountability from others are both good supports in helping us develop new habits and routines. Are there people in your life that are willing to help you make some positive changes?
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24
Are there any things you feel compelled to do in how you relate to other people, or to God? We are usually so ingrained in our habits that we often don’t recognize when we are doing things good or poorly. We just do them. If you are brave enough, you can ask a spouse, or someone you trust, what they think you do well, or not so well in how you relate to others. Do you have routines where you regularly connect with others and with God? Is your time in the Word and prayer life a natural habit, or something that you need reminders to work into your schedule? Pick out one or two things you would like to change in your daily life and set up some reminders or ask someone to hold you accountable for what you would like to do. May you find joy in doing those things that draw you closer to God and to others in your life!
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5
Yours in Christ,
Clark
