How can I establish better habits and behavior that reflect what I value?

It is not difficult to identify what those around you value. Since what we value drives what we do, consider your day-to-day activities. What do your daily habits, routines, and behaviors say about what you value?

• If you say you value your life as a Christian, yet you rarely make it to church or read the Bible, is it a value?
• If you say you value your health, yet you rarely move your body or eat well, is it a value?
• If you say you value your marriage, yet you rarely encourage or build up your spouse, is it a value?

From my experience, if you want to improve what you say and do, then it all starts by getting clear on what you value and aligning your behavior and your agendas, accordingly.

We are becoming a generation that is flooded with messages about honoring and valuing what we feel. Yet do not be tempted to allow emotions to dictate what you do each day. In Scripture, we learn that we have the authority to design a life rooted in faith, and not in feelings. Notice when a feeling arises that draws you away from your identity in Christ; whether it be resentment, anxiety, or simply lack of motivation around starting a new habit. Label it for what it is: a scheme of the enemy.

Remember, God is faithful. If you are tempted by the ease and comfort of returning to an old pattern of behavior, you can ask the Holy Spirit to help you endure (1 Cor 10:13). Each day, arise and put on the armor of God, which will help protect you against the discouragement and distractions of the day, so that your behavior will reflect what you value in accordance with Scripture.