We all make bad choices. #1 That old sinful temptation pops up yet again. Consider praying:
“Father, help me to turn instantly from this thought.”
To fight bad thoughts consider making it a habit to have a daily “Go to” verse about drinking/drugs.
Isaiah 55:7 ESV Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
To fight bad thoughts have a prayer and a verse ready every day. Use them often.
Second, bad mindset choices. The minute you are down, angry, sad, depressed, start fighting back. Call a sponsor, read a bunch of articles, study key verses, think about activities you will do once you regain some control.
Third, Choosing nothing. Leaving a void. Leaving an empty space for satan to fill. Based on your past experience… Will he fill it? Consider praying:
“Father, show me Your will.”
Try doing something new for God. Help someone. It may or may not be something great but, it is a great choice.
Finally, bad choices about places where you go, or, places where the wrong people are. Consider praying:
“Father, help me to know Your plan as to where I should be, and who I should be with.”
Finding healthy places to go and healthy people to be around is a huge step toward finding long-term joy.
Which bad choices do you constantly make? I plan to make changes with my choices and I plan on increasing in joy as fast as possible.