Stubborn habits can take on a life of their own; that’s why they keep growing. They have a mind that thinks for us, a voice that speaks to us, and a power that keeps conquering us. When we have bad habits that are controlling us, we should pray and declare God’s Word over them to break their hold on us. God said, ‘I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled (Jeremiah 1:12 NIV). Here's a prayer for breaking stubborn habits: ‘Lord, Your Word says that if I call on You, You’ll answer me, that You’ll be with me in trouble, You’ll honour and deliver me (see Psalm 91:15). You promised that through the power of Your Spirit, I can be free from this vicious cycle of temptation, sin and failure (see Romans 8:2). You said if I fully committed my life to You, I’d have the strength to resist the devil, and that he would flee from me (see James 4:7). Your Word says You’ve given me the power to pull down my old strongholds and take control of every ungodly thought, imagination, and impulse (see 2 Corinthians 10:5). You promised that by reading and meditating on Your Word each day, I’d be able to share in Your divine nature and overcome the tendencies of my earthly nature (see 2 Peter 1:4). You promised to strengthen me in my mind, my emotions and my will; You promised that my self-worth would be based solely on Your love for me; You promised that You’d do exceedingly abundantly above all I could ask or think, because You’re at work in me (see Ephesians 3:14-21). Today, I claim victory over this habit, in Jesus’ name, amen.’ Today, declare the words: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’

What Now?

Do you know someone who’s trying to break a stubborn habit? Why not share the prayer in today’s reading with them, and offer to pray regularly with them for freedom from whatever is holding them back.