When we surrender our lives to God, he takes possession of our heart. A change is brought about that is impossible without God. It is important that we surrender our lives to God on a daily basis. If we neglect to choose God, we automatically choose Satan. You see, it is not necessary for us to intentionally choose Satan; however, it is required that we choose God.  

It is possible for us to temporarily drop bad habits by our own self will. Unfortunately, without a changed heart, which only God can bring, we will eventually be overcome. We must continually stay connected to God or we will end up unintentionally carrying out the Satan's bidding.

God will attempt to speak to us through the Bible, another person, and the Holy Spirit. We will only discern his efforts if our hearts are receptive. God does not harden our hearts or blind us from spiritual things. It is our decision to reject the light that slowly deadens our senses and ability to discern spiritual things. The process of weakening our perception occurs gradually over time almost unnoticed.  

The words we speak are a good indication of our hearts condition. We must guard our words as we can be easily influenced by what we say. It is not safe to express words of doubt or question or criticize spiritual things. By the mere utterance of such thoughts, we can cause ourselves to believe a lie. Satan will plant suggestions in hopes that we will utter the thought, which begins the slow but deadly process.  

Matthew 12:37 says, “The words you have said will be used to judge you. Some of your words will prove you right, but some of your words will prove you guilty.”