Friday Fight 243: When Patterns Become Pathways

Every Friday morning, during my quiet time with the Lord, He faithfully places something on my heart that speaks to the subtle, internal battles many of us face. This is Friday Fight 243.

When we think of habits or patterns, what comes to mind? Some of us might reflect on our decision-making and how it is influenced by our parents, siblings, or friends. Others might think of something tied to the past or something that grips us generationally. Unfortunately, we rarely notice our patterns until they start steering us in a direction we never intended to go. How can we look at our patterns, good or bad, and make sure we are not missing God’s best for our lives?

When Patterns Become Pathways:

Patterns shape our thoughts, and ultimately, our lives. We often let imagination guide us, only to regret our decisions later. The problem with letting our thoughts lead our imagination is that it invites fear.

Let’s unpack our choices for a moment and what happens when we allow our failed patterns to repeatedly bring us discouragement and despair. Over time, we begin to see ourselves through our failure, and our identity is no longer tied to God. We may be tired of our labels, discouraged by living in a failed path, but until we quit living in the past and allow our identity to be rooted in Christ rather than generational patterns, we are trapped.

Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Rather than letting patterns lead to failure, we allow God to guide us into hope and purpose. When we align those patterns with God, He transforms our direction, purpose, and future.

God sees everything and fights against our hurtful patterns. He sent our advocate, the Holy Spirit, to invite us to trade the patterns that trap us for patterns that lead us into His best. We simply have to accept His invitation. Let’s change the way we think, beginning in a hopeful place, stating out loud, “God is with me.” Avoid questions like ‘Who am I?’ or ‘What am I doing?’ which leads to a mindset of failure.”

Ungodly patterns create strongholds in our lives. Society labels and divides us into categories and stereotypes. Some people seem to have it all together, while others are doing what they can to survive. But please stay away from thoughts like “us or them,” “we have nothing in common,” because they reinforce division. Through Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection, we have the ability to overcome identity strongholds and allow Him to remove the labels that seem to cling so strongly to us. Let God remind you of who you are and why you are here.

We have all been hurt, felt lonely, hurt others, overcome adversity, and some of us have beaten cancer or experienced God’s grace in survival. Instead, look at what unites us: being created in the image of God, walking together under His love and grace, and bound by the truth of His Word.

This week, join me in praying to identify recurring patterns. Strengthen Godly patterns like gratitude, prayer, and obedience, and release one worldly pattern to Him. What shapes your thoughts will shape your life, so let God shape both!

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In His Grace,

Pastor Shannon

River Church