@everydaygodswill

God is not solely interested in behavior modification. God is interested in a relationship with us through Jesus Christ. As we develop our relationship with Him and become more intimate with Him, our behavior will modify itself. 

A lot of Christians stay stuck on behavior modification as the only way of pleasing God. In their minds, the more they can do right, the more God is pleased. The problem with this mindset is in our flesh, behavior modification has no end, and it can be exploited by Satan.

If someone starts on a journey of behavior modification, they’ll start with the obvious things such as no drinking, smoking, cursing, or sexual immorality. Then, they’ll move on to modifying what they watch and listen to. If they get past that, they’ll need to work on being critical, judgemental, or negative. Another layer is being kind and being a blessing. The list goes on and on.

A lot of people try to modify their behavior using only will power. Where is God when will power is used? Now, we’re back to keeping the law, which was only designed to show us how sinful we are and our need for a Savior (Rom. 3:20).

At the same time, Satan will point out our faults and attempt to make us feel condemned or guilty. For some, this guilt and condemnation is too much, and they find themselves giving up on pleasing God altogether. Or, they’ll pick and choose what they can do in their own strength.

Behavior modification is good as long as it coincides with a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. When we internalize what He’s done for us, we don’t want to dishonor Him. As we get closer to Him, He’ll tell us what areas to work on without guilt or condemnation, and He’ll empower us to do what pleases Him (Rom. 8:1; Phil. 2:13). He’ll remind us of our forgiveness through Jesus Christ if we miss the mark (Heb. 8:12). And He’ll let us know how much we’re loved (Eph. 5:2).

Let’s not get so focused on behavior modification without developing a relationship with God. Continously develop your relationship with God, and your behavior will change.

Philippians 2:13 NLT For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.

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