Are Your Habits Helping or Hurting You?

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
(Ephesians 4:22–24)

Most of us long for healthy, life-giving relationships, yet we sometimes find ourselves wondering how we ended up feeling disconnected from the very people we love. It’s a bit like boarding a flight expecting one destination only to discover you’ve been rerouted somewhere you never intended to go.

The truth is that our daily habits shape the direction of our relationships. In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul reminds us that when we come to Christ, we’re called to “put on the new self.” That means leaving behind the old patterns that damage relationships and embracing new ones that reflect the heart of Jesus.

Paul gives us practical ways to live out this new life. He calls us to speak the truth with integrity, deal with anger before it takes root, become generous rather than self-focused, and use our words to build others up instead of tearing them down. These aren’t just good relationship principles. They are evidence that the Holy Spirit is transforming us from the inside out. When we allow bitterness, dishonesty, or unresolved conflict to linger, we grieve the very Spirit who is working to make us more like Christ. But when we choose kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, our relationships become places where God’s love can flourish.

Every conversation is an opportunity to move closer to the people God has placed in your life or farther away from them. Today, ask yourself, Do my habits reflect the old me or the new person Christ is shaping me to become? As you surrender your words, attitudes, and reactions to Him, you’ll discover that healthy relationships don’t happen by accident. They’re built one Christ-honoring choice at a time.

Bold Step Challenge:
Choose one relationship where God is prompting you to grow. This week, intentionally practice one new habit, whether it’s speaking words of encouragement, resolving a conflict, telling the truth in love, or extending forgiveness.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for making me a new creation in Christ. Help me put aside the habits that damage relationships and clothe myself with truth, kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. May my words bring life, my actions reflect Your love, and my relationships point others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.