We all have bad habits we’d like to break, but it often seems we just “can’t.” Breaking the bad habit of thinking “I can’t” is the first essential step to freedom from any destructive habit such as physical or emotional dependencies, foul language and complaining. Eliminating “I can’t” is especially necessary for anyone who claims a relationship with the Lord Jesus. Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things in Christ Who empowers me.” To say, “I can’t” is saying “God is a liar.” It sounds innocent, but is a serious and offensive accusation against God’s promise to empower His children!
“You are what you think” is supported by the concept is found in Proverbs 23:7: “…for as a man thinks within himself, so he is.” Biblically, it’s true: how we think determines our overall life experience, far more than the actions of those around us.
Thoughts reinforced by constant repetition become deeply ingrained thought-habits. When we tell ourselves over and over: “I can’t”; “I don’t know”; “I’m confused”, or “I’m too tired”, we come to believe these defeating thoughts as unchangeable truth. Because decisions and speech habits flow directly from these thought patterns, our life experience will inevitably reflect increasing failure, ignorance, confusion and a weary, foot-dragging apathy.
The good news is that these sinful, destructive thought patterns can be changed. The power of God enables us to move from the hopeless “I can’t” into the fruitful, joyfi lled life of, “Together, God and I can”.
Change begins when we ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how often we think and say some form of “I can’t” such as: “This will never work” “It’s too hard” “I’m weary” “It’s too much trouble”.
Notice each “I can’t” thought as soon as you become aware of it. Then, immediately and carefully reject “I can’t” and replace it with “God and I can” truth from God’s Word.
Positive thinking changes not founded on God’s Word of truth and power are temporary. Replacing each “I can’t” thought with Biblical truth produces permanent positive change. For example, “I can’t get everything done” becomes: “Lord, thank You that I have energy and strength…according to YOUR mighty power. I can exercise patience and perseverance, with joy…” (Colossians 1:ll) “I can’t” thinking makes everything seem impossible and destroys incentive for growth. Believing God’s willingness and indwelling power enables us to do what previously seemed impossible. Practice-practice-practice believing God instead of trusting doubts and feelings! (2 Corinthians 3:4): “Our confidence, ability and sufficiency come from God in Christ. He qualifies us, making us worthy and sufficient…” Our sufficiency comes from God Himself! Our part is choosing to “do it anyway”; maybe even “do it afraid” or “do it tired” in His strength, in spite of our feelings.
Biblically, there’s no such thing as “I can’t” for anyone who has received the life of Christ through salvation. A repetitive “I can’t” habit produces discouragement that destroys our willingness to try. Honesty requires that we admit we’re really saying, “I won’t!” because of fear of failure, discomfort and inconvenience. Understanding God’s perfect love neutralizes fear so we can confidently choose to participate in what God desires in our partnership with Him.
(Jeremiah 32:27; 1 Corinthians 15:57): “I AM the Lord God of all humankind. There is absolutely nothing too difficult for Me… God gives the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! Therefore, be immovable, always excelling, doing more than enough in Christ, knowing that your labor with Him is never wasted or lacking purpose.”
Infinite Grace Ministries teaches freedom and abundant living by focusing on the limitless love-power and mercy of God. Join Dr. Dixie each Tuesday evening, 6:30-8:00, 118 W. Main for Bible Study. We are currently studying Revelation—a perspective that will set you free from fear of “end-times”!
Infinite Grace Ministries For questions or info contact us at: PO Box466 Weatherford OK 73096 580-774-2884 Facebook: Infinite Grace Ministries
