Ugly word. The word even sounds evil. Granted the fact of the definition associated with the word gives the basis for a negative feeling, however it obvious isn’t something we should encourage. Webster defines vice: an evil action or habit, evil conduct. And we all have them…. Regardless, no matter the number, we should attempt to overcome them and not enhance them. And never excuse them!
Vices tend to multiply. One vice seems to invite another vice but the second is far worst than the first and together they can seem to be invinsible. They’re not! But when we don’t deal with the first we do promote our destruction. A vice is not a cute little imp to be encouraged – it needs to be viciously pulled out and destroyed.
What do we do with our vices? Most people attempt to hide them rather than overcome them. Obviously this speaks to the fact that we really are embarrassed by them, and perhaps even ashamed. However we also are taking the easy way out if our response to them is to hide them. Overcoming takes effort, takes vigilance, takes commitment – but we can be victorious over vices. Since they are habit based, we need to realize that they won’t go easily.
While I would argue that we really can’t fully overcome them alone since I believe we need to have the help of the Lord, we do need to exercise our will power. Overcoming, I believe, is a partnership of our will and the Lord’s grace. But we are able to be victorious – actually scripture promises this.
