— Pastor Robert Hammond.

I received a postcard from Russia with a stamp commemorating Ivan Petrovich Pavlov (1849–1936) -- of "Pavlov's dog" fame. Recall that Pavlov viewed human behavior as largely determined by environmental stimuli -- not unlike the dog that was conditioned to salivate when a bell rang.

Contrary to Pavlov’s view, Christians must understand that human behavior is a choice. We recognize that, while our environment may influence our choices, we remain fully responsible for those choices.

In James 1:14, the Bible states, "... every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of HIS OWN LUST ..." And Jesus stated, "... out of the HEART OF MEN, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders (Mark 7:21).

And so a biblical anthropology (doctrine of man) recognizes that our own heart has far more influence on our choices than our environment.

Therefore, we are morally responsible for all of our choices.

Let's take care to not blame our upbringing or our environment for our choices. We are responsible for our hearts -- and the choices they produce.

What can do if I recognize that I have failed to accept responsibility for my behavior — including my sinful choices?

Confess that unbiblical view to the LORD. To confess is simply to agree that we are guilty;
Ask the LORD for strength to repent of an unbiblical view, i.e. to turn away from refusing to acknowledge personal responsibility;
Ask the LORD for grace to “put off” a wrong view of our responsibility and to “put on” a right view.

Praise God for his grace!