Habits aren’t the goal, but becoming more like Jesus is.
As we grow in the likeness and attitudes of Christ, we become a brighter light in the world that seems to get darker all the time.
Here are a few notes I made from reading the Holy Habits book by Noah Herrin.
Make decisions with our holiness in mind.
We often fall into the trap of making decisions with our happiness in mind. This is not always a good measurement. Happiness is to eat a whole pizza. Holiness is having the discipline of moderation and keeping the temple of the Holy Spirit (our bodies) healthy. Happiness is less critical than holiness. When we have true holiness, we then have true joy.
Community costs us something.
Community is needed more than ever, but it will cost us something. The church is the place for the authentic community that so many people crave, but it comes with the cost of time, vulnerability, and commitment. The culture around us has created a facade of community, smartphones, and digital access, and still, people are lonelier than ever. In addition, we’ve been taught that we can have instant gratification without sacrifice. Being in a genuine and authentic community will cost you, but it’s worth it.
You need a coach.
A good coach can help us see what we can’t do about ourselves. Finding someone close by who can know you and serve as your mentor will be invaluable in creating the kind of life habits that keep us walking in faith until the end.
A conference takes you high. A relationship with Jesus takes you deep.
I have participated in hundreds of weekend retreats and conferences, so this quote resonated. Large gatherings have their place. They help us see things in new ways and hear from different people. Jesus will often bring clarity or calling to our hearts and lives. These mountain tops are crucial as springboards in faith. But the valley frequently tests and sharpens our resolve to follow Christ. These everyday moments of being close to Jesus create a deep relationship – like the tree planted by the water with constant nourishment.
Keep it simple.
Living life as a Christian isn’t complicated. You trust Jesus for your salvation and do your best to follow his direction, words, and commands. You love others. You seek to serve in and grow the kingdom. You commit to a weekly Sabbath, love your friends and family, and enjoy life.
You’re not you when you’re hungry.
People these days say they are “hangry.” In this combination of tired, hungry, and angry, they make poor decisions, get into a bad mood, only think of themselves, and are, in popular vernacular, “over it.” Spiritual hunger is the same. We are all spiritually hungry for God’s word, the love of Christ, and the peace and contentment that can only come from a relationship with the almighty one. If we find ourselves in a place where we’re starving for God’s work in our lives, we need to step back and feed on God’s word. Pray for more of Him. More of His grace. Seek him fervently! Then, we will discover who God created us to be, enjoying life and love again.
Take note of your cravings. We want to crave God and his holiness, not the things of this world. Each of these ideas helps us do just that. Again, habits aren’t the goal, but knowing Jesus and becoming more like him is!
You van get a copy of Noah Herrin’s book here.
