As followers of Christ grow in their faith, certain habits naturally fall away. This transformation isn’t instantaneous but is a testimony to the powerful work of the Holy Spirit within us. Here are five habits that mature Christians learn to leave behind, as they walk closer with the Lord.
1. Turning Away from Sin
Upon embracing a new life in Christ, as declared in 2 Corinthians 5:17, believers begin the process of turning away from sin. The desires that once dominated their lives start to wane as they seek to please God rather than indulge in fleshly desires. The Apostle Paul candidly shared his own struggles in Romans 7:19, reminding us that our journey involves continuous battle and growth. The struggle itself is a sign of the Holy Spirit’s active presence in our lives, urging us toward greater conformity with Christ.
2. Distancing from Destructive Company
1 Peter 4:3-4 discusses the lifestyle changes that accompany a person’s commitment to Christ. Former friends may be puzzled or even hostile toward the new life choices a believer makes. This separation isn’t about judgment, but rather a necessary shift to foster a healthier spiritual environment. As in 1 Corinthians 6:11, the transformation from our past selves is a profound testimony of God’s cleansing and sanctifying power.
3. Rejecting Assumptions and Judgments
The call to love as described in 1 Corinthians 13:7 involves believing the best in others unless proven otherwise. Mature Christians avoid jumping to conclusions based on appearances or circumstances. This practice fosters grace and understanding within the community, as believers recognize that everyone’s story and struggles are different.
4. Choosing Separation from Worldly Values
Believers are called to live in the world but not of it (John 17:16). This means actively choosing not to conform to the world’s values but instead seeking transformation through the renewing of one’s mind (Romans 12:2). This separation is not physical isolation but a spiritual distinction, focusing on Godly values over worldly ambitions.
5. Renouncing Pride
Pride is particularly deceptive because it can infiltrate our hearts subtly and manifest in various aspects of our lives. Scripture is clear that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Mature Christians recognize that any success or strength they have comes from God and is not of their own doing (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Conclusion
These transformations are not about earning salvation but are the natural fruit of a life increasingly aligned with God’s will. As believers set aside old patterns and embrace God’s ways, they reflect His glory more clearly. This journey of sanctification is a powerful witness to the world of the transforming power of faith in Christ. Remember, as you step away from old habits, you are stepping closer to the heart of God and His perfect plan for your life.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Roberto Lee Cortes from Pixabay
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