Have you ever been checking out at the grocery store and had your card declined? I have, several times. It’s the worst feeling. It feels just as bad to have your electricity shut off because the bill hasn’t been paid. Again, I’ve been there. It’s hard for me even to put this part of my life out there. Now that it is, I might as well say it: Financial management is a weakness of mine. I hate it. One thing I’m looking forward to about the end of this life is not managing finances anymore. If only the money were there when I needed it and I never had to track it. If only…

But I do have to track it and manage it. Not only does it make me a better steward of my money and things, it makes me a more responsible, faithful, and informed person. It alleviates my fears and elevates my confidence and maturity. That’s the case when we confront our weaknesses. It lessens their power over us. While it may be scary, it’s necessary and makes our lives better. Here are 5 common men weaknesses we are afraid to confront.

1. Money

I know I’m not alone with this one. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the amount of credit card debt in the U.S. is close to a trillion dollars. If there is one thing I’ve learned about this one is, the longer I put it off, the worse it gets. If this is your fear, take small steps. Look at your statement. Put a monthly budget together and set at least one achievable goal. If you’re married, make sure you discuss it with your spouse and get on the same page.

2. Lust

When we give in to our thoughts, or perhaps even encourage or justify them, they take control of us. Our attitudes toward our wives and women in general become worse. They become disrespectful and dehumanizing. Our behavior can become more impulsive, less self-disciplined, and more self-indulgent. Whether this is driven by fear or depravity, we have to win early. Take control of your thoughts or they will control you.