Bad habits (13-08-20)
A Reading
I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. (Romans 7:15)
They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. (2 Peter 2:19)
A Thought
In these strange times it is more difficult to establish a daily routine. If we cannot socialise during our Covid lockdowns, what is the point of looking smart, since no one will see us? If we are remote working all day, do we really need to change out of our pyjamas? Now we have this heat wave, is there any point in hoovering, since the harvest dust and birch seeds fly straight back through the open doors and windows?
It is so easy to slip effortlessly into bad habits which can be readily justified. Surely it’s not safe to exercise when it’s so hot? We might as well have a lie-in, since we’re not doing much today anyway.
The impact of bad habits becomes apparent very quickly. By not getting up early, we seem to lose half the day. If we don’t have anything to do, we soon develop a low self-esteem and feeling of worthlessness.
It can easily spread from our earthly lives into our Christian lives. The Sunday service is premiered at 10.00, but we don’t have to watch it then. It’s always available to watch - we’ll watch it later, whenever that might be. Whenever never happens, and we feel shallow and guilty that we have not been in any relationship with God.
Collective worship has always been at the heart of our faith.
When we become Christians, we want to meet with other Christians. We long to share our faith experiences and learn from each other. Sharing our different perspectives gives new meaning to the gospel passages. This is the booster which propels our daily spiritual journey.
For many, the routine of joining bible study groups and live worship is necessary in supporting good faith habits. We should welcome these opportunities once again.
A Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus,
Please forgive us for allowing lazy habits to interfere with our relationship with you.
Thank you for the Christian community which surrounds us.
Where we have strayed, please guide us back to you.
Amen
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