Create A New Habit

I came across an article this week that I really identified with. The author asked if I’ve ever noticed fear does its dirty work by asking questions? It asks you questions about you. It asks you questions about God. It asks you questions about your future. And it makes you doubt. So fight back with your own questions. Here’s some to get your started:

• Who is bigger – God or your problem?
• Who loves you with a never-ending love?
• Who promised you eternal life through his only Son in a place where fear will be no more?
• Who sees you as perfect and righteous due to your faith in Christ?
• Who knocked down the walls of Jericho?
• Who got Joseph out of prison?
• Who parted the Red Sea?
• Who saved Noah from the flood?
• Who really took down Goliath?
• Who died on a cross for your sins?
• Who defeated Satan, sin and death?
• Who is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords?      ~ Mitch Miller

The answer, of course, is Jesus! I like how his questions take the focus off of my problem and refocus my attention on Christ.

His exercise is similar to one of my mine when it comes to battling fear. As soon as fear starts to make me feel week, insecure or steal my joy, I quote scripture. “The battle is in the mind,” the bible says. And I want to be prepared to fight.

I began by choosing verses in the back of my bible on the topic of fear. Those that spoke to me, I wrote down on a piece of paper and kept it in a handy place. Whenever fear began its dirty work in my mind, I’d refocus my attention on God’s promises. Here are a few of my favorite.

“For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you” (Isaiah 41:13)

“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again” (Exodus 14:13)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

“So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can Man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6)

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27)

Listen, my friend. The Lord wants you and me to learn a new habit rather than worry. He wants you and I to say,

“I trust you with my cares.”

“Your Presence and love are like a shield of protection for me.”

“Peace is mine when I keep my thoughts on You.”

“You, Lord, are with me and for me. What or whom shall I fear?”

Forming a new habit takes practice and it takes time. But I promise if you change your habit from worry to faith, it will take hold and fear will lose its grip.

You are in my prayers today. If you have a specific request, leave it in a comment and I will be happy to lift your concern to heaven above.

Have a blessed week!!!