THE PSYCHOLOGY OF HABITS

Habits are something we all deal with, whether we like it or not. They’re the things we do over and over again, and they shape our daily lives. Some habits are good, like brushing your teeth or exercising, while others, not so much—like hitting the snooze button too many times or grabbing “comfort food” when you’re stressed. Psychologically, habits form in a cycle: first, there’s a trigger or cue, then you do something (the routine), and afterward, there’s a reward. It’s this reward that makes you want to do it again. But the thing with habits is, once they’re formed, they’re hard to break. Especially when mind-altering chemicals are involved, like in tobacco, gum, or cannabis. These habits create physical and mental cravings that add another layer of difficulty when trying to quit.

The Bible talks a lot about changing the way we live, about how our habits should align with God’s ways. Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This is about breaking the cycle of old habits that hold us back and allowing God to change how we think and live. Our brains might be wired for certain behaviors—whether it’s unhealthy ones or just habits that don’t lead us to where God wants us to be—but when you invite God into your life, He rewires you. It’s not just about personal growth; it’s about becoming who God created you to be. With His help, we can make the effort to shift from negative habits to ones that glorify Him.

The thing about habits, though, is that they don’t change overnight. Research shows it takes about two or three months to form a new habit, but consistency is key. If you keep at it, slowly but surely, the new behavior becomes automatic. In a way, that’s like the Christian journey. It’s a process—not a quick fix. Philippians 1:6 says, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion." Just like you don’t wake up one day with all your bad habits gone, you also don’t become the person you’re meant to be all at once. It’s a process—step by step, day by day. And that’s okay. The journey isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, one choice at a time.

In the Bible, we’re called to live disciplined lives. Proverbs 12:1 says, "Whoso loves instruction loves knowledge: but he that hates reproof (discipline) is brutish" (or "stupid," in more modern translations). Discipline isn’t about being perfect or about beating yourself up when you mess up. It’s about putting in the work to grow and being intentional with the choices you make every day. Paul talks about this in 1 Corinthians 9:27, saying, "I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave." He’s talking about self-control and keeping himself disciplined in his habits so that he can stay focused on God’s calling for his life. In the same way, if we want to change our habits—whether it's spending more time in prayer, breaking a bad habit, or starting a good one—we have to put in the effort. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary for the kind of life God calls us to live.

Habits are powerful, especially the ones we start when we’re young. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." This isn’t just about kids—it applies to everyone. The habits we develop, whether good or bad, stick with us. Jesus talks about the importance of practices like prayer, giving, and fasting in Matthew 6. He doesn’t say, “If you pray,” or “If you give,” but “When you do these things.” It’s part of the rhythm of a believer’s life, and like any habit, it’s something we do over and over to grow in our faith and relationship with God. These practices aren't just routine actions—they’re tools that bring us closer to God and help us grow spiritually.

But changing habits isn’t just about willpower. It’s about replacing old patterns with something better. Psychologically, you’re more likely to stick with a new habit if it gives you a similar reward to the old one. Spiritually, it’s the same. You can’t just tell yourself to stop doing something bad—you need to replace it with something that’s better for you. For example, instead of giving into a temptation or habit that pulls you away from God, you replace it with prayer, serving others, or worship. Psalm 37:4 says, "Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." When we put God first, our desires shift. The old habits lose their grip because we’re finding joy in what God gives us instead of what the world offers. When we replace negative habits with God-centered ones, we experience more fulfillment and peace.

Breaking bad habits can be tough. But God doesn’t leave us to do it on our own. Galatians 5:16 says, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” It’s a constant tug-of-war between the old ways and what God wants for us. Changing your habits, whether it’s eating healthier, getting more sleep, or spending more time with God, takes time and effort, but it’s possible because God’s Spirit is there to help. We don’t have to rely on our own strength to do it. His Spirit empowers us to overcome challenges and move toward healthier habits that honor Him.

The key to changing habits is realizing it’s a process. God doesn’t expect perfection, but He does call us to move in the right direction. Every small step counts. Even if you stumble, keep going. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” God uses the process of changing your habits for good. It’s about more than just fixing behaviors—it’s about drawing closer to Him and becoming the person He designed you to be. As we submit to God’s plan, He shapes us into His image, one day at a time.

In the end, habits shape us, but they don’t have to control us. The Bible encourages us to be intentional with the habits we build, knowing that with God’s help, we can break free from negative patterns and grow into who we’re meant to be. When we invite God into the process, He gives us the strength and wisdom to transform our habits—and our lives—one step at a time. It’s not about being perfect or instantly transforming; it’s about allowing God to work in us, little by little, day by day, to build habits that honor Him and bring us peace.

I hope this message has blessed you. Please leave a comment!

Anna M. C. Hazen 2025