Jun 14, 2009

Habits

Habits. I have a few.... well maybe more than a few. We all have them. Some are ridiculous, some are a tad bit eccentric and others came because our mothers, mothers, aunt did it.
Some habits, when done repeatedly, bring forth great fruit in our lives. Others....well, they are downright nasty. They lead to death.
Anyone who knows me well, knows my eccentric and familiar habits. Like when I really enjoy something, I talk about it, over and over and over again. Its good because this habit causes me to REALLY appreciate or notice something. The annoying part is that those close to me hear it over and over again to the point of annoyance. That's when I hear snickering, and things like: "Yes mom, we know, you LOVE these flowers. Yes we know they have such beautiful little petals. You already told us 5 times!!!"

Now, I'm being kind to myself on this blog, by not mentioning all the nasty habits I have that don't bear any good fruit at all. Let's just say there are lots.
Tonight, as I was reading and pondering on Psalm 130, I came across a revelation.
God has a habit too!!!

Psalm 130 says:
3-4 If you, God, kept records on wrongdoings,
who would stand a chance?
As it turns out, forgiveness is your habit,
and that's why you're worshiped.

When I read this and I chuckled to myself. "Hey! God has a habit!!" And what a profound one it is. I only wish it could be mine. I often intend for it to be a habit of mine, much like I intend to make exercise a habit... ahh, but alas, I haven't done anything to start the exercise habit. Why? Because I don't like the discipline it takes. I like the results, but I don't want to do the hard work.

Some times I choose forgiveness, but I wouldn't say its a habit of mine. I'd like it to be but it is not always my natural response. Sometimes it takes me a few days of harboring unforgiveness and feeling its deathly effects before I realize I could be free if I just would forgive. I guess it will take more discipline to choose the way of forgiveness first. Then, maybe after time, I will find it to be a habit of response. Wouldn't that be great? In the mean time, I'm grateful God is in the habit of forgiving me, and his kindness makes me ask for help and want to offer the same gift to others.

4 comments:

Shaun and Holly said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Shaun and Holly said...

Cheryl,
It is always such a pleasure to see that you have written something new on your Blog. I treasure your words.
Holly

1:11 PM

Cyndi said...

Good Post Cheryl! When I think of habits my mind generally jumps to the negative side. I think I will try to focus on some of my positive habits this week.

Unknown said...

mmm i love this passage! so often, it's just so easy to hold that grudge but with the spirit dwelling in us we can now forgive as Christ has forgiven us. such a humbling lifelong lesson :)