Chains

After moving away from my family, close friends and church home awhile ago, finding a new church had been a struggle for me. Then I lost both of my childhood Pastors. I grieved. It was tough. The word I received as a child and into my adulthood helped mold and shape me into who I am today. I knew the next church I attended had high standards to meet. After exploring various churches, I decided to visit Elevation.

The first time I attended, the Pastor wasn't present. I enjoyed the presentation but for no good reason, I didn't return. I took a break from looking-life kept happening. I continued to maintain my relationship with GOD of course, just didn't have a church home. Recently, after speaking with a friend she encouraged me to go back for a second experience. I am so glad I did.

That particular Sunday, Pastor Steven Furtick ministered on Choosing your CHAINS. Not only did this resonate with me spiritually but it made much sense as it relates to everyday life. Even as a therapist the sermon translates.

Breakdown

C - Choice: In life, there are CHOICES. Good and bad. You may choose to make a "bad" decision.

H - Habits: That bad choice may become a HABIT. Something we decide to do-everyday.

A - Automatic: After awhile that habit has become AUTOMATIC. Now, apart of our routine, everyday.

I - Identity: Eventually our habit becomes a part of who we are, our IDENTITY.

N - Nature: Finally, after the habit becomes apart of who we are, now it comes as second NATURE.

"Oh that's just ____...you know how he is...he always does that."

Without thinking, you've already made the same bad choice, over and over & now, it's the norm for you. Sounds like a cycle right? A cycle that has become a chain that holds us back from becoming or being our best selves. We are not always in control of everything. However, with making healthier choices, we have better chances of healthier outcomes.

Sometimes our chains are generational. Cycles of abuse, toxic behavior, addiction, unhealthy choices that may be apart of our family history. But we don't have to accept it. That bad choice you made could be as simple as eating unhealthy foods as a Diabetic, smoking cigarettes, getting involved in abusive relationships-one after another. Sometimes we don't even realize the choices we make and how they affect our lives. Sometimes we make choices out of survival. Whatever the reason, it's never too late for change. Some habits are easier to break than others. Other times, change requires professional help. However it happens-change is change.

To find a Therapist in your area: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapistsutm_source=

PT_Psych_Today&utm_medium=House_Link&utm_campaign=PT_TopNav_GHelp

For Additional Help:

Mental Health and Substance Abuse - https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help

Breaking Bad Habits - https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-break-a-bad-habit-2224068

Smoking Cessation - https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/?s_cid=OSH_tips_D9170

Changing your Diet - https://www.health.com/weight-loss/30-simple-diet-and-fitness-tips#fun-up-your-food

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