No one sets out to fail at anything. And yet failure has some common denominators. When we fall short, we can look back and trace the factors in why and where our mis-steps occurred.
#1 - STAY AWAY FROM STRONG CHRISTIANS
One of the most important factors in the direction of your life is your decisions in regard to primary relationships. Passion is contagious. If you get around people who are passionate about God, it will have an impact upon you. If you choose lukewarm friends and/or hang with people who are running away from God you will ensure your downward spiral spiritually.
It's probably best to stay away from participating in weekly worship experiences with your church, because it is in that place that you might encounter the kind of passionate people will interfere with your path toward failure. Small groups can be lethal to a backslidden condition. Stay away from them at all costs.
#2 - TELL YOURSELF WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR
If you are going to fail, you must make sure to stay away from the truth. Self-deception is a skill that you can practice and hone into an art form. Live in denial. Minimize the impact of compromise. Develop excuses for why you do what you do and why you can't change.
#3 - AVOID TIME IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Quiet time can be dangerous. Keep the TV on. Distract yourself constantly. Make sure that you place your Bible in a place that is hidden from your sight. If not, the Holy Spirit might begin to convict you about your negligence. Noise, entertainment, and distractions are keys to eliminating the room necessary for the Holy Spirit to work aggressively in your life.
#4 - LIVE ONLY FOR THE MOMENT & GIVE NO THOUGHT LIFE's MEANING
Reflection can also hinder your path to spiritual malaise. If you start to think about eternity and what makes life count, you will begin to make decisions that will lead to spiritual success. Be hedonistic. Do what feels good and what provides you with the greatest pleasure right now.
Don't stop to evaluate how this is affecting your life or the lives of those around you. Wisdom comes from such choices. Foolishness and failure are linked. It's key to stay thinking foolish and immediate thoughts if you are to continue to sink spiritually.
Obviously, my hope for you is not FAILURE but SUCCESS. So do the opposite of what's listed above and you will have step into your best year yet.
