– Breaking free from destructive patterns
Some patterns don’t need permission to repeat. They just need space.
And too many of us keep giving that space—to fear, to shame, to habits that sound like, “I’ll never get it right,” or “This is just who I am.” We make agreements with failure before we even begin. That’s self-sabotage. And it’s sneaky.
It doesn’t always look loud or reckless. Sometimes it appears in the smallest decisions—putting off the call you know you need to make, convincing yourself not to apply for that opportunity, or ending a relationship because, deep down, you don’t believe you deserve to be loved well.
But the truth is:
God never designed you to live in defeat.
Romans 12:2 (CSB) reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
That transformation begins with your thought processes—about God, about yourself, and about what you believe is possible.
Self-sabotage flourishes in silence.
When you don’t confront it with the truth, it becomes louder.
When you keep your struggles concealed, shame moves in as your roommate.
When you avoid healing, the past continues to lead the way.
But freedom starts with exposure.
You can’t cast out what you continue to cover.
It’s not just about being strong—it’s about being surrendered.
It’s about trusting that even if you’ve failed before, you’re not disqualified from trying again.
Ask yourself honestly:
- Who or what am I agreeing with when I hold myself back?
- Is this fear protecting me or paralyzing me?
- What lie have I mistaken for my personality?
You’re no longer confined by that old story. Not when Christ has penned a new one.
Philippians 1:6 (CSB) says, “I am confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
,You’re still a work in progress, but progress is proof that you haven’t given up.
And every step you take in awareness, in courage, in prayer—
That’s you breaking the cycle.
Not with perfection.
But with presence.
With intention.
With grace.
So today, speak life into your pattern.
And then walk in the opposite direction of it.
God’s already there, waiting with freedom in hand.
District Elder & Pastor Harold Robertson, Jr. is a seasoned IT Professional and spiritual leader who bridges technology and faith to drive innovation in schools, churches, and communities. With certifications in ITIL, Google Workspace, AI, and church administration, he empowers organizations to thrive through strategic tech integration and leadership.
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