Breaking old habits of poverty thinking

It's more practical than you realize.

Greetings Prosperous Souls,

Did you know that it’s possible to break free from a poverty mindset, but still act out of old habits that were formed during poverty thinking?

Just like recovering from any addiction, relearning how to live in a healthy way takes time. This is the practical, nitty-gritty side of inner healing that many overlook.

What do old poverty habits look like?

Back when Dawna and I were newlyweds, we were in so much debt that we felt anxiety every time we opened our mailbox. We feared another bill would pop out, and threaten our financial stability. Some days, we couldn’t even go near our mailbox because we were so discouraged.

Fast forward 4 decades: Dawna and I have experienced so much breakthrough. Our old habit of fearing the mailbox has vanished because of a new season of abundance.

However, during the COVID lockdowns, we found our businesses crippled and our finances greatly impacted. We backslid into old poverty habits of fear. What happened?

The human tendency to reach for safety

When we face crises, it’s easy to slip back into familiar patterns. Despite being liberated, our need for protection can force us to reach for old modes of thinking. This can play tricks on us and make us wonder, Did I even get healed in the first place?

Turns out you did, but the human need for comfort means that old habits might resurface. When this happens, don’t panic. Work with Holy Spirit to rebuke them and pursue truth.

Getting back on track

If you find yourself struggling with old poverty habits, use these 4 steps to exchange them for a Prosperous Mindset:

1. Pay attention to the words you use about money. Take note of how you communicate with others. Do you make self-deprecating comments or victimize yourself? Do you speak with self-pity? If you notice yourself speaking negatively, acknowledge it, and refuse to partner with it. A useful prayer can look like, “I see you, poverty. I do not partner with you. I send you back in Jesus’ Name. Jesus, what truth do you have for me in exchange?”

2. Take note of when you feel anxious or concerned about money. Recognize these moments when you feel uncomfortable. View them as opportunities for change. Remind yourself that these emotions are remnants of your past. They no longer define you, so as my wife, Dawna, says, “Check your baggage at the door.”

3. Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit. Ask Him what you can do differently. Listen to the Holy Spirit’s promptings and jot down 3 actions you can implement this week. These acts could be big or small. Either way, view them as prophetic ways to ignite your prosperous journey. Don’t worry if they don’t make sense. Just listen to what the Lord says. For instance, Dawna used to go to our mailbox, mail off the few bills we could afford, then declare, “Thank You, Lord, that You gave us the money to cover these bills. We faithfully expect You to provide more to cover our remaining expenses.”

4. Remember, things really are different now. Don’t settle for the poverty spirit. Embrace your newfound freedom as a Prosperous Soul, and recognize its potential impact on future generations. The hard work you do today will bring spiritual and financial breakthrough for your children’s children.  

P.S: if you need help overcoming old poverty habits, consider scheduling a Financial Sozo session with me. Together, we can address any money-lies harassing you and cultivate healthy habits that align with Christ’s vision for your life. Click here to learn more.

God bless your Prosperous Soul,
Stephen K. De Silva

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About: Stephen K. De Silva is an author, speaker, and financial coach. From 1995 until 2017, he served as the CFO of Bethel Church, and a member of the senior leadership team. Stephen’s blend of experience, training, and gifting make him a pioneer in the subject of money. You can reach Stephen at hello@prosperoussoul.com