7 Strategies for Real Change

What is something in your life that you want to change? A sinful behavior? A foolish habit? Think of that “something.” And, be specific.

Why do you want to change that “something?” What benefit will it bring? How will your life improve? How committed are you to change?

Have you ever tried to change this “something” before? If so, how did it go? Did you have any positive results? If not, why weren’t you able to change?

Here are some suggestions for how to make progress on that “something.”

First, identify when it is that you struggle with that “something.” Is it specific times of the day? When you are around certain people? Are there circumstances or scenarios that make you more likely to give into that “something?” Can you think of any triggers?  

Second, identify any lies that the Evil One is selling you. Behind every sin is a lie that we have believed. For example, Adam and Eve believed the lie they could be like God when they disobeyed Him by eating the fruit. David believed the lie that he could hide his adultery by murdering Uriah. What lies has the Evil One told you about that “something?”

Third, identify the truths that counter that lie. It is never enough to stop certain patterns of thinking, speech or behavior. We must always replace them with someone glorifying to God. Genuine repentance includes a “put off” and a “put on.”

Fourth, identify any idols that have promoted the lies in your heart. This will allow you to attack the sin at the root level. And if you attack the sin at the root level, you are more than likely to “weed it” from your heart. What are your desires and wants? What are your fears?  

Fifth, identify the obstacles that will keep you from change? Maybe a friend who doesn’t want to change will tempt you to just be the same person you are trying to change. Maybe a lack of accountability will not encourage true change. Maybe your own minimization of your sin will block potential change.

Sixth, identify the spiritual disciplines that need improving. God has graciously given us means by which to spiritually grow. For example, we have Bible reading, memorization, prayer, church attendance and involvement, journaling, service, etc. Which of those need to be deepened? Which need to be more of a discipline?

Seventh, and finally, identify your hope for change. Where in the Bible do you ground your confidence that you can be different? Start with the promise of I Corinthians 10:13 and then navigate to Ephesians 2:10 and then think on Philippians 2:12-13. Remember that God saved us when we were enemies of Him (Rom 5:6-10) so that we might become like Him.