Attitude
If there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8-9
Stop and check your attitude today. Does it need adjusting? Are you being self-centered or putting God and others first?
Another area that the children are studying in our “Grow Up” series is attitude. The definition found in the on-line dictionary describes attitude as a way of thinking and feeling that is reflected in a person’s behavior. Basically, actions speak louder than words. What we do says it all. Our attitude is reflected in our behavior, our words, the look on our face and the patience we have with others.
Let’s face it, many things happen in a day that we can allow to set our attitudes on a roller-coaster ride. It is easy to let the “things” that are happening be the guide to what our attitude is for the day. BUT God—The Bible tells us “not so with you”! We are to be set apart. God expects us to be different. Just because the boss is moody and grouchy doesn’t mean the whole office needs to be. Set an example for those around you. Let your attitude guide be the Holy Spirit. But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. Galatians 5:16
If our attitude puts God first instead of our self, we will be looking out for others and consider their feelings. We will show mercy and quickly forgive. I think our attitude is the one area in our “growing up” that we struggle with the most as adults. It is easy to vent to a friend or co-worker. However, our venting is often-times at the expense of talking about someone else or something they did. If our attitude is not in check then we can easily spend the whole day with a sour attitude letting the actions of someone else drive our thoughts and feelings.
Poor attitudes bring strife and frustration. Right attitudes bring blessings Mark 5:3-12
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for
righteousness; for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful; for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
If you spend your day with a “right” attitude you will be talked about and people will wonder what you are up to. You will probably even be accused of “brown nosing”. But we are to not do what others do. Things that we do and say are to be different. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. Matthew 20:26
I had a quote on my wall at work that read like this: Change your thoughts and you can change your world. Change your world today. Allow the Spirit to be your attitude guide.
Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:17
Pastor Julia Scott