Can Old Behavioral Patterns Be Changed?

“I long for a new beginning in my life because I’ve made too many bad choices. I went with the flow of life so many times, knowing it wasn’t right for me. I seem to be following the same patterns. Is there hope for change?”

We’re all subject to making regrettable choices, as this person exemplifies. Yet it’s facing and living with the consequences that produce sadness and depression. Is it possible to change basic patterns of life that haunt you like a bad dream?

Proverbs 2:3-5 suggests “if you will cry out for discernment and lift up your voice for understanding, if you will seek wisdom and search for it as a hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” Did you hear those ifs? “If you cry out... if you lift up your voice... if you seek.” Humble yourself because fear of the Lord breaks old patterns of behavior. 

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“Fear God and give him glory…  Worship and honor God! ... Kneel down before the one who created heaven and earth.” 

~Revelation 14:7 New International Version/Contemporary English Version

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Personal Treasures to Pass On

Soon after Jacob and Esau’s fortieth birthday, their father Isaac decided to give Esau his blessing as the firstborn son. This blessing would give Esau his special approval by asking for God’s favor to make sure good things were in his son’s future. Isaac’s blessing would pronounce unique powers and privileges upon Esau.

 

Genesis 27 alludes to this power. “May nations serve you and people bow down to you. Be lord over your brothers, and may the sons of your mother bow down to you.” Can you imagine the excitement and anticipation Esau felt knowing he would have an importance above all the others in the family?

 

What do you treasure most at this moment that you can pass on to those you love the most? Isaiah 33:6 points you to Christ who is a “sure foundation for your days, a rich store of salvation, wisdom and knowledge.”  It goes on to say, “the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.” You can bless those you love with this treasure.