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Avoid Near Occasions

The Bible tells us, "Do not let your passions be your guide, but keep your desires in check. If you allow yourself to satisfy your passions, they will make you the laughingstock of your enemies." (Sirach 18:30-31) It also tell us to "offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect." (Romans 12:1-2)

 

When you avoid near occasions that are or lead to a bad habit, you cooperate with God's grace to govern your senses and overcome unruly passions. The goal of this habit is to avoid near occasions every day and to replace them with one of the other better habits. These are examples of near occasions to avoid based on the senses:

  • Sight. Any mobile devices/apps, TV, movies, games, reading material, or any people, places, things, or situations around you that are or lead to a bad habit.

  • Hearing. Any musicconversations, and all lies and deceptive behavior that are or lead to a bad habit.

  • Touch. All sexual behavior outside unitive/procreative purpose within marriage, and any drugs, medications, and nicotine that are or lead to a bad habit.

  • Taste. Any foods, drinks​, and alcohol that are or lead to a bad habit.​

  • Smell. Any cologne, perfume​, or favorite food aromas that are or lead to a bad habit.

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