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Key Bible Verse: Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Neither can you do good, who are accustomed to doing evil (Jeremiah 13:23, NIV). Bonus Reading: Romans 6:12–18

If you are to deal with your defect, you must choose to act even when you don't feel like it. Alcoholics Anonymous has a slogan: "Fake it until you make it." In other words, choose to act in a way that is opposite the deadly defect in your life, even if you don't feel like acting that way. It's easier to act your way into feeling than to feel your way into a right action.

Pray, "God, I want to be obedient to You even though it seems weird to me. I am going to obey You in this even though I don't like it very much."

Once you start the process, God will allow the feelings to catch up with you.

Don't rely solely on your willpower. Remember that it is your will but His power. Rely on God's power more than your power. Ask for His help.

In your own strength—as Jeremiah observed [in Today's Key Bible Verse]—it's impossible to change your identity, your character, or your behavior. However, as Paul said, "I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need" (Philippians 4:13). By ourselves, we can do nothing. With Christ, we can accomplish every goal worth going after.

—Ed Young in Fatal Distractions

My Response: An area in which I need to "fake it" until my feelings catch up is …

Thought to Apply: Men are more unwilling to have their weaknesses known than their crimes. —Lord Chesterfield

Adapted from Fatal Distractions (Nelson, 2000) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, I keep facing defeat in one area of my life. Please empower me to win over it.

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