241112 Old Patterns

 Old Patterns

I know I have been born again 
That I've been made brand new
Yet, why do all my sinful ways
Keep winning as they do

I became a new creation
When I gave my life to Christ
But old patterns of behavior 
Seem to act by own device 

I know I have a heart for God
Will love him all my days
Still listen to the devil's lies 
And walk ungodly ways

Aware I'm called to be a light 
To shine on this dark earth
Though, sometimes, all I feel is dark
Not hope, or joy, or mirth

Chances to live as Christ's servant
Are revealed with each new dawn
But old patterns of behavior 
Make my selfishness live on

These behaviors become patterns;
Are entrenched when they're repeated
How can I break old habits
So at last they are defeated

Perhaps this side of heaven
That's impossible to do
With God, all things are possible, 
I also know is true

So, I shall keep on trying
Not in my strength but in His
Making prayer and faith my patterns 
For that's how I'm called to live

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