I hate the words “I can’t”. I try never to use those words. Nine times out of 10, the true meaning of those words is “I don’t want to” or “I choose not to”. That is especially true when it come to things that God asks us to do. Let’s start with a simple command.

Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:29

and there must be no filthiness or foolish talk, or vulgar joking, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.

Ephesians 5:4

Off-colored jokes and profanity have no place in the life of a Christian. I’ve heard people say they can’t stop cursing. It’s only joking. It’s just words. God knows my heart. I don’t want to downplay how difficult it is to stop certain habits. I’ll even go so far as to say that alone you may not be able to conquer some habits. If it were impossible for a person to stop certain behaviors, why would God’s word command it?

The life of a Christian is a Holy Spirit powered. If you have not surrendered your will to Christ’s will, accepted His sacrifice for your sins, repented and been baptized to received the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38), you are not equipped to live the life God is calling you to lead. If you are not dressing each day in the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), you are not equipped for the trials of the day. If you are not being intentional in cultivating the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) every day, your forward movement in the sanctification process will stop and you will be stuck.

It’s not about not being able to do something or being able to stop doing something. It’s about being dependent on God. It’s about being committed to being successful. It’s about denying yourself and exercising self control. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who are equally committed to your success. Remember: bad company corrupts good morals (1 Corinthians 15:33), but as iron sharpens iron does a person sharpen his friend (Proverb 27:17). Surround yourself with a community that will spur you on to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24)

I struggle with time management. These principals apply here too. I ask God to strengthen my mind and increase my focus on the tasks He wants me to do. I let my friends know I’m struggling and ask them to hold me accountable. I deny my desire to watch Tik Tok videos and binge watch NCIS and do my laundry first. I listen to the wise counsel of people who are more successful at time management. I acknowledge when I fall short and figure out what causes me to go astray. I create schedules of what I need to do, building in time for recreation as well.

What every your struggle, from anger to addiction to unforgiveness to cussing, these principles will work if you work them.

Comment how you can use these principles in what you struggle with today. Be blessed.