A Guide For Young Men: How to Get Out of a Rut
Life is a series of choices. Each one, big or small, shapes who you become. For young men striving to live with purpose and honor, cutting out bad habits isn’t just about removing sin—it’s about creating space for something better. Let’s talk about why eliminating harmful habits is crucial and what practical steps you can take to replace them with disciplines that lead to a life of strength, health, and character.
Why Cut Out Bad Habits?
- They are sinful.
God has called us to live lives of purity and integrity. Gluttonous social media use and pornography pull us away from His design for our lives. They cloud our hearts and minds, making it harder to hear His voice. - They sap your motivation.
These habits aren’t neutral—they drain your energy and leave you feeling empty. You start with good intentions for the day, but distractions like endless scrolling or destructive behaviors keep you stuck. - They waste time.
Time is a gift, and bad habits steal it away. Hours spent in unproductive or harmful activities are hours you’ll never get back—time that could be invested in growing stronger physically, mentally, and spiritually. - They provoke bad thoughts.
What you feed your mind shapes your thinking. Pornography and other harmful content warp how you view yourself and others, leading to guilt, shame, and unrealistic expectations.
What Happens When You Replace Them
When you cut out these habits, you’ll notice an immediate shift in your life:
- Improved Physical Health: Regular exercise, better sleep, and less screen time will leave you feeling stronger and more energetic.
- Sharper Mental Clarity: Without distractions, your mind becomes more focused and able to process what truly matters.
- Spiritual Growth: Time spent with God renews your spirit, builds character, and gives you peace that nothing else can.
- Higher Confidence: You’ll start to look better, feel better, and carry yourself with greater integrity.
Practical Steps to Build a Better Life
- Commit to a Consistent Workout Routine:
Physical fitness strengthens not just your body but your discipline. It teaches perseverance, builds energy, and boosts your confidence. - Establish a Prayer Time:
Prayer keeps you connected to God’s guidance and reminds you of your purpose. Set aside a specific time each day to talk with Him. - Journal Daily:
Write down your thoughts, struggles, and victories. Journaling helps you reflect, stay accountable, and track your progress. - Meditate on the Bible:
God’s Word is your ultimate source of wisdom and encouragement. Read it daily, and spend time thinking about how it applies to your life. - Replace Social Media with Purposeful Activities:
Limit social media to specific times or cut it out altogether. Instead, use that time to learn a new skill, connect with others, or invest in your goals.
Resolve to Remember
Every day, you’re either building the man you want to become or slipping further from him. Bad habits hold you back; good disciplines propel you forward. Cut out what doesn’t belong, not just because it’s wrong, but because you were made for so much more. Choose what honors God and builds you up—and watch as your life transforms.