Ancient Christianity believed in invisible powers that influence human beings to have evil thoughts, desires, passions. So, it's not just bad human habits, ther

Ancient Christianity believed in invisible powers that influence human beings to have evil thoughts, desires, passions. So, it's not just bad human habits, there can be external influences as well. This is part of the Nicene creed: "I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, maker of Heaven and Earth, and of all things visible and invisible." Demons are generally believed to be powerful enough to influence humans against their will. This is why Christians pray "Lord, have mercy" or "Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me" throughout the day, so that God helps them in the "spiritual warfare" for their souls.