Overcoming patterns of Defeat

[09:25, 11/28/2019] Lindokuhle: *OVERCOMING PATTERNS OF DEFEAT* 1. What is a pattern ? Dictionary definition :- - A repeated decorative design - A model or design used as a guide in needlework and other crafts . *BIBLICAL MEANING* Any behavior you engage in that is self sabotaging that takes you away from what you want, or that distracts you from your goals. Also a behaviour that zaps your vitality ,leaving you exhausted and without access to the powerful energy you need to create your best life. *EXAMPLES OF PATTERNS OF DEFEAT* 1 ] Engaging in clear and obviously risky ventures 2 ]Procrastination 3 ] Self-seclusion 4] Missing appointments 5]Social withdrawal 6] Withholding ones needs 7] Giving up easily when facing adversity 8] Playing the role of a victim and easily sinking into vices. These are some of the examples. The list is longer. When you look into your life do you see examples of negative patterns? *Why the patterns of life mean something* If you pay close attention ,there must be patterns in your life. Your patterns differ from mine,but they are patterns. It may be from things you have been reading ,what you have been thinking for a while and only to find it in your life experiences ,conversation or what have you.... *Romans 12:2* *Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect* Just by observing patterns in ones biological or spiritual family ,whether one fail or succeed can be determined beforehand . Unless one is able to recognise any pattern present ,pray and in some cases fast to break these patterns ,one may end up facing the same challenges ones parents or family. *STEPS TOWARDS BREAKING DEFEATING PATTERNS* 1] Discover why you want to change . You will be motivated to change only when you clearly understand the reason why you want to change your life..eg if you want to reach a goal or if you are disgusted by your own behavior . *Ask God to reveal the reason* 2] Change your perceptions . Admit that the way you have been interpreting your life has been sabotaging your ability to break free of defeating patterns that are holding you back. Recognise you need God's help, give Him full access to your heart and mind and ask him to stop the generational dysfunction . Break any family cycle before it continues in your life. Give leadership of every part of your life to God. *Proverbs 3:5-6* Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths 4] Form Godly habits. Changing the way you think will change the way you live. Ask the holy spirit to renew your mind daily. *Philippians 4:8* [8] For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. Pursue forgiveness Don't let bitterness and anger accumulate in your soul that will poison you spiritually and make you vulnerable to attacks from evil. Obey God's command to forgive others who have hurt or offended you as God has forgiven you or your own sins. Let God carry your burdens and give you power to move on to a healthier life. *Colossians 3:13* Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 6] Surround yourself with faithful friends . Friends who want the best for you, encouraging,supporting and holding each other accountable as you all grow closer to God. *Proverbs 18:24* 24 There are “friends” who destroy each other,but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. 7] Stay focused. Remain focussed on doing what God leads you to do each day to move beyond your past destructive life and build a new,healthier one. Aim to fulfill Gods purpose for you every day. Don't be discouraged when your progress seems slow . Continue following where God leads you.