January 16, 2024
Forming Habits of Rewards Instead of Regrets – Part 2 (Matthew 6)
In the quest for spiritual growth and transformation, Christians often find themselves grappling with the challenge of forming habits that lead to rewards rather than regrets. Last week’s sermon gave us key insights, emphasizing the importance of habits in the context of prayer, generosity, and inner scrutiny. As we explore the biblical narratives of Andrew and Simon Peter, the Samaritan woman, Philip and Nathanael, and the demon-possessed man, we uncover the transformative power of intentional habits in one’s spiritual journey.
The Foundation of Habits
The sermon begins with a foundational understanding of habits as the driving force behind either rewards or regrets. Drawing inspiration from Romans 7:19, pastor Eric highlights the struggle between good intentions and the reality of falling back into old patterns. The key to breaking this cycle, we learn, lies in the consistent, repeated actions that form habits.
Relevant: Forming Habits of Rewards Instead of Regrets – Part 1
Acknowledging the Need for God’s Help
Jeremiah 13:23 serves as a catalyst, emphasizing the recognition that changing unhealthy habits and implementing new ones requires divine assistance. The sermon encourages believers to seek God’s grace, will, and ability to navigate the challenging journey of habit transformation.
Discipline and Self-Control
The sermon emphasizes the role of discipline and self-control in kickstarting a habit. Discipline involves consistency—doing something whether one feels like it or not. Accountability, involving sharing goals with others, is introduced as a means to initiate momentum in the habit-forming process.
Starting Small and Being Consistent
A pragmatic approach to habit formation is introduced, discouraging grandiose plans that often lead to frustration and abandonment. Instead, last week’s sermon suggests starting small but remaining consistent, emphasizing the value of gradual progress over time.
Habits Every Christian Should Have
Developing habits that align with Christian principles is crucial for spiritual growth and transformation. These habits serve as the building blocks of a vibrant and purposeful Christian life. From the inner scrutiny of motives in acts of righteousness to the generous sharing of resources and time, Christians are called to cultivate habits that reflect the love and teachings of Jesus Christ. The habit of consistent prayer fosters a deep and meaningful connection with God, providing a source of strength, guidance, and intimacy. Fasting, when done with the right motives, becomes a disciplined act of seeking God’s will and aligning oneself with divine purposes. These habits, when embraced and practiced regularly, contribute to a life filled with rewards rather than regrets, creating a strong foundation for a flourishing Christian journey and spare us from a life of regrets.
The Habit of Inner Scrutiny
Examining Matthew 6, the sermon highlights the importance of scrutinizing personal motives in acts of righteousness. Christians are encouraged to avoid performing deeds for self-glorification but, rather, to glorify God through their actions.
The Habit of Generosity
The sermon delves into the biblical expectation of Christians to be generous, sharing resources and time with those in need. Emphasizing the joy of giving and supporting ministries, believers are urged to cultivate the habit of generosity in various aspects of their lives.
The Habit of Prayer
Exploring the significance of prayer, the sermon stresses the necessity of regular, habitual communication with God. Various biblical references underscore the multifaceted role of prayer in seeking help, overcoming temptation, and interceding for others.
The Habit of Fasting
Fasting is presented as a discipline that, when done with the right motives, aligns believers with God’s will. The sermon underscores the importance of private fasting, focusing on God rather than seeking external validation.
Watch sermon here:
