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What does the Bible say about breaking bad habits?

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The Bible teaches that sinful patterns can be put off through repentance, faith in Christ, and the renewing work of the Holy Spirit, who gives believers both forgiveness and strength to walk in new obedience. Ephesians 4:22-24 calls Christians to put off the old self and put on the new, while Romans 12:1-2 points to transformation through a renewed mind. God faithfully provides a way to endure temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13), and believers may confess sin with confidence in Christ's cleansing (1 John 1:9). By refusing opportunities for sin, resisting love for the world, and persevering in doing good, Christians grow in holiness by God's grace.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Ephesians 4:22-24

    [22] that you put away, as concerning your former way of life, the old man, that grows corrupt after the lusts of deceit; [23] and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, [24] and put on the new man, who in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of truth.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13

    No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

  • Romans 12:1-2

    [1] Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. [2] Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.

  • Philippians 4:13

    I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

  • Proverbs 28:13

    He who conceals his sins doesn't prosper, But whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

  • 1 John 1:9

    If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

  • 1 John 2:15-17

    [15] Don't love the world, neither the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father's love isn't in him. [16] For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, isn't the Father's, but is the world's. [17] The world is passing away with its lusts, but he who does God's will remains forever.

  • James 1:12

    Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love him.

  • Ephesians 4:27

    neither give place to the devil.

  • Galatians 6:9

    Let us not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season, if we don't give up.

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