Three lessons in how to build habits as a Christian.

Introduction

Frequently, I find myself making New Year’s Resolutions or other resolutions that revolve around ambitious ideas. After witnessing a group of dedicated individuals performing a captivating poi dance on the beach, I became convinced that this was my next pursuit. I embarked on a journey of studying videos, acquiring the necessary equipment, and taking the plunge. However, this enthusiasm waned within a mere two weeks, and the endeavor lost its momentum. It dawned on me that while it was an aspiration, it lacked a defined objective and the specific daily actions required to achieve it. This path, I realized, does not serve as the gateway to cultivating meaningful habits as a devoted follower of Christ.

Lessons in building great habits

Nearly every individual who attains any significant accomplishments, be it in sport, academia, the workplace, social or family life, achieves them by consistently excelling in small tasks over an extended period of time. The extraordinary moments of triumph they experience are outcomes of routine, everyday actions carried out with a commitment to excellence. For us, it is imperative to master the art of establishing good and healthy habits as devout Christ-followers if we aim to make a profound difference in the service of the Lord.

Challenging Habit-Building thought

Fast-forward to the end of the current year. Based on your current habits, will your retrospective view be one filled with contentment, meaning, happiness, and optimism? How about in five years time? Both you and I possess the chance to initiate alterations in the present—whether they are significant or minor—that will ultimately shape the course of our lives. Andy Stanley expands on this idea of the path in his book called “The Principle of the Path”. The book revolves around a very simple principle: Direction, not intention, determines our destination. I’ve also written an article on how to find your purpose in life, which may help to guide you on which habits to prioritize to get you to your destination.

Biblical Insight on Building Great Habits as a Christ-follower

Below are three key insights extracted from Hebrews 10 vs 19-25, which hold valuable guidance for both devoted Christ-followers and those on a journey of faith exploration. By grasping the ultimate goal or objective and embracing three simple daily actions, a substantial transformation will gradually unfold within your life over time.

19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have boldness to enter the sanctuary through the blood of Jesus— 20 he has inaugurated[a] for us a new and living way through the curtain (that is, through his flesh) Hebrews 10 vs 19-25

This is truly remarkable. By accepting Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we open ourselves to a transformative path of life. Contextually, this passage follows an explanation of Jesus as the ultimate high priest. In the past, only high priests could enter God’s presence in the temple. The Israelites would present offerings for their sins, which the priests would then offer to God. However, as Jesus became the ultimate offering, we now have direct access to God’s presence through Him.

This offers us the chance to embrace life in its entirety, both now and for all eternity. We can embark on a new and vibrant path that inevitably leads to life, in contrast to an antiquated and fading route that leads to death. Any earthly way of life that doesn’t center around the blood of Christ is essentially a path toward decay—a pursuit focused on things that are transient and cannot bestow life.

Reflect on this: if my ultimate goal is to amass wealth and lead a comfortable life, that path is, in fact, an old and decaying one. It falls short of ushering us into God’s presence today and will ultimately be consumed for all eternity. If any of our aspirations overshadow the pursuit of entering the holy of holies, they will inevitably be old and dying, rather than new and living.

Drawing Near to God

21 And since we have a great high priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. Hebrews 10 Vs 21-22

This means emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically moving towards Him. Actively making Him a priority – the best way of building great habits as a Christ-follower. There is something very special about coming just as we are, mess and all, a true heart, with full assurance of faith, trusting in what His flesh and blood accomplished, not our merit. It is daily positioning, re-orientating ourselves toward and with Him. Practically, this may look like picking up the bible, getting away and being alone to listen to Him, and resting on The Truth of His word.

Anchoring Faith in Eternity

23 Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, since he who promised is faithful. Hebrew 10 Vs 23

The essence of this passage lies in our daily commitment to stand firm in our faith in God and His promises, regardless of the challenges we face. While this might sound simple, it’s a practice that requires consistent effort. It gradually becomes a reality as we embrace the first step each day: listening to the Truth and resisting the deceptive lies of the enemy.

Although we will undoubtedly experience triumphs during our time on Earth, our true hope remains steadfastly anchored in eternity, transcending the temporary concerns of this world. It’s crucial not to unintentionally place our hope in things that are fleeting and decaying—like earthly comforts, our aging bodies, or an unchallenged and easy faith—because doing so might mean we miss out on eternity with Him. Instead, there exists a fresh and vibrant path, a new and living way that leads us towards the boundless possibilities of eternity with Him.

Spurring Each Other On: Nurturing Christ-Glorifying Habits

And let us watch out for one another to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

The process of cultivating Christ-centered habits requires collective effort and mutual support. Encourage one another to live out the initial two steps, recognizing that this collaboration is pivotal in assisting fellow Christ-followers in their journey towards building meaningful habits.

The original Greek word used for “habit” in Hebrews 10:24-25 is éthos which implies something that’s become a custom, that that may even be prescribed by law or tradition. Habits, whether constructive or detrimental, serve as prescriptions for our lives. Positive habits, such as integrating into a faith community, act as healing medicine. Conversely, negative habits, like isolating ourselves during struggles, prescribe further pain and desolation.

Our pursuit is to cultivate habits that glorify God profoundly. Let us keep a vigilant eye on one another’s spiritual growth in Christ. Motivate each other to embrace richer lives, invested in endeavors that magnify Christ’s presence. Regular gatherings, both in homes and at church, serve as a foundation. Engage those around you to hold you accountable for your words, actions, and eternal focus.

Why is this imperative? The day of reckoning draws near—the King’s arrival is imminent. Eternity looms on the horizon. What in our lives will stand the test and what will be consumed by fire? What will be rewarded?

Finally, consider this analogy: Every Christian who has achieved notable accomplishments in service to the Lord—a thriving marriage, well-raised children, impactful contributions to the world—has achieved these feats through consistent dedication to the smaller, foundational actions, coupled with God’s abundant grace. Their focus on nurturing Christ-centered habits has yielded evident fruit over time.

So, let us fix our gaze on the ultimate goal. Embrace the potential for substantial personal transformation in your life this year and throughout the upcoming decade.