which will provide the power promised by God to bring about change? Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
3. Suggest that the bad habit or habits (sins) be faced in specific terms. It is necessary to identify those areas that need changing. It is a challenge to be faced realistically, because habits are hard to break. They cannot be "wished" away. The use of pious phrases is of little help. We must work at it. The apostle Paul put this in perspective when he said, "O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?" (Romans 7:24). Cures are neither instantaneous nor easy.
4. Encourage the person to confess his or her bad habits to the Lord as sin, and to seek forgiveness. At the same time, help the person to make a covenant with God to work through to victory. A definite commitment at a given place and time will set the stage for change. Take a stand; be an overcomer. (See Joshua's statement in Joshua 24:15.)
5. Tell the inquirer that bad habits can be broken by practicing the principle of replacement or exchange—what the apostle Paul speaks of as the "put off—put on" principle: "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. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully" (Ephesians 4:22-25, NIV). And, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work . . ." (Ephesians 4:28, NIV).
Memorized Scripture can be a great help in practicing the "put off—put on" principle of exchange. For the Christian afflicted with the inclination for swearing or bad language, a "replacement Scripture" such as the following would be helpful: "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers" (Ephesians 4:29). At other times, one might use a word of praise, such as those found in Psalm 34 or 103.
Assure your inquirer that there is a wholesome replacement for each bad habit which is broken!
6. Suggest that daily Bible reading, study, Scripture memorization, and prayer are of great value. As God's thoughts invade our minds, things must begin to change.
7. Suggest that a fellowship link be established with another Christian for mutual sharing of problems, prayers, and victories. This sort of "buddy system" has helped many people.
8. Suggest seeking opportunities to serve Christ. As we begin to share