Consider Your Choices!

The word "habit" really isn't a negative word but the word brings our bad to mind. One source gives the definition as "a settled, automatic behavior pattern acquired through frequent repetition." That "frequent repetition forms a tendency to repeat the pattern almost subconsciously, i.e. turning off lights, locking doors, biting nails, etc. Research says it can take as few as 18 days for a new behavior to become automatic ... yes, a habit. Joshua said, "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15 ESV). Now, that is a bold declaration - one every Believer should nod to and agree! How does such resolve actually come to pass? Let me suggest, it begins with a habit of wise choices. Jesus said in Matthew 6, "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" (V.33). In other words, as the standard for every choice His children make, the standard should be His righteousness. The old line "what would Jesus do?" is actually a good question to ask. If Jesus would do it, it's a good choice; and, repeating that choice over and over again will lead to something spiritually beneficial ... a holy habit. Joshua's bold statement is a challenge to Believers today to determine by God's grace to choose daily - one choice at a time - to yield ourselves to the path of righteousness. Of all the choices you and I will make today and tomorrow and every day after, there is no more important a choice than to follow Jesus. Consider your choices!