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Avoid Near Occasions

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To avoid near occasions to sin (2 Timothy 2:22) is to grow in virtue, which leads to true happiness. People often use worldly things to cope with negative feelings like being bored, lonely, angry, anxious, hungry, stressed, sad, or tired, and these worldly things are near occasions to sin. Strive to be intentional every day to avoid these near occasions and to replace them with exercising better habits: ​

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• Escaping reality by isolating in private places

• Using a mobile device or computer for doomscrolling or other unnecessary/immoral purposes

• Communicating with foul language or lies

• Playing immoral video games

• Watching immoral TV shows or movies

• Consuming more than 1 serving of sweet foods or drinks

• Consuming more than 1 serving of alcohol (or any alcohol if addicted to it)

• Using recreational drugs or tobacco

• Making unnecessary/immoral purchases

• Listening to music with immoral lyrics

• Interacting flirtatiously or suggestively outside of marriage

• Holding onto anger and resentment