'In the morning, O Lord, hear my voice.' Psalm 5:3 CEV.
Develop the habit of starting each day with God. When you do, you will have a source of strength to draw on all day long. Psychologists say it takes up to three weeks to become familiar with a new habit, and another three before it takes root. That means you need to get beyond the six-week barrier.
So, do these:
*(1) Make a strong resolution.*
If you begin half-heartedly, you will never succeed. The Bible says, *'Encourage one another daily'* (Hebrews 3:13 NIV). If it helps, become accountable to someone. Ask them to encourage you and remind you of the promise you made to God.
*(2) Never allow an exception.*
A habit is like a ball of twine: every time you drop it, some of the strands unwind. So don't allow *'just this once'* thinking to creep in. Every act of yielding weakens your will and causes you to lose ground.
*(3) Use every opportunity to practise your new habit.*
Whenever you get the slightest urge to read your Bible and pray, do it. Don't wait; use that moment to reinforce it. It doesn't hurt to overdo a new habit when you're first starting.
*(4) Rely on the power of God. You're in a spiritual battle, and you can only succeed with God's help.*
Depend on Him to aid you in developing the habit for His glory.
Write down the following words and keep them before you constantly: *'Lord, I commit myself to beginning each day with you no matter what the cost. And I'm depending on you to help me be consistent.'* That's a prayer He is sure to answer.
Amen
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