Each of us shapes our daily life through habits, some of which bring us closer to God and others that pull us away. So, how can we make changes that will help us live closer to Him? Here are 5 key steps that will help you transform your habits into spiritual foundations, along with tips on how to commit to these habits for 21 days to see real change in your life.
1. Recognize Your Habits
Take a step back and reflect on your current habits. Are they aligned with God’s will? Ask yourself, “What can I change to be more pleasing to God?” This is the first step in seeing change – you begin with full awareness of what you’re doing and what needs improvement. The more aware you are, the easier it will be to make conscious decisions toward transformation.
“Find out what pleases the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:10)
“Awareness is the first step in change. When we are conscious of our habits, we have the opportunity to change them.” – James Clear, Atomic Habits
2. Surrender Your Habits to God
True change is impossible without God. In prayer, surrender your struggles and weaknesses to Him. Ask for the strength to overcome sinful habits. This allows you to build a true spiritual foundation on which you can grow. Remember, God wants to help you, but you must allow Him to work in your life by giving Him your habits and requests.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
“Success in habit change often depends on external support. People who ask for help have a greater chance of lasting change.” – Charles Duhigg, The Power of Habit
3. Replace Old Habits with New Ones
Instead of focusing on what you don’t want to do, focus on what you want to introduce into your life. For example, instead of scrolling through social media in the morning, start your day with prayer and reading the Bible. Introduce a new habit daily that builds your faith. For 21 days, systematically replace old habits with those that bring you closer to God.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
“To make lasting change, you must build new habits that replace the old ones. Often, what we do is a result of what we have done before.” – James Clear, Atomic Habits
4. Put God First
Before making any decision, ask yourself if it aligns with God’s principles. Are your actions at work, in relationships, and in everyday life reflecting His will? The more conscious choices you make, the more you will feel His guidance in your life. Every day is an opportunity to invite God into every area of your life, from work to rest.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
“A habit starts with a choice. When we make conscious decisions every day, we slowly shape our lives and our future.” – Charles Duhigg, The Power of Habit
5. Deny the Desires of the Flesh
Our bodies have desires, but as Christians, we are called to live according to the Spirit, not according to fleshly cravings. This means choosing what is good even when your body desires something else. Daily discipline, prayer, and asking for God’s help in mastering your body lead to spiritual freedom and a fuller life in Christ.
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24)
“Everything we want depends on our ability to master our desires. Instead of giving in to impulses, we make conscious choices.” – James Clear, Atomic Habits
Additional Steps to Help You Permanently Change Your Habits:
- Care about your daily choices – Every decision you make matters. What you do today affects your tomorrow, so be intentional about making choices that lead you to God.
- Read the Bible daily – God’s Word renews your heart and mind, leading you to truth and His light.
- Do it for 21 days – It takes about 21 days to establish a new habit. Commit to praying morning and night for 21 days, and you will see how these habits begin to influence your life, building lasting transformation.
Changing habits is a process, but with perseverance and consistency, especially over 21 days, you will notice real change. Each day is a new opportunity to draw closer to God. Give Him the chance to lead you to a better life filled with His peace and blessings! I send you my prayers and encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments! 🙏
