When was the last time you encountered someone with an “attitude?’” We all instinctively sense when we are dealing with an individual who is “attitudinally challenged.”
While we usually think of attitudes in negative terms, it is helpful to remember that they can also be positive. In fact, having an “attitude” can be a very good thing, as long as we have the right one.
To develop the right attitudes we need to see what God has to say about them. Here are three Scriptures that give us guidance about managing our attitudes:
“A relaxed attitude lengthens life …” – Proverbs 14:30 (NLT)
“Throw off your old evil nature and your former way of life, which is rotten through and through, full of lust and deception. Instead, there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes.” – Ephesians 4:22, 23 (NLT)
”Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had.” – Philippians 2:5 (NLT)
Proverbs reminds us of the benefits of right attitudes. The right attitude is a “relaxed attitude.” The original biblical word for “relaxed” is rich with meaning. It refers to a “composed, peaceful and tranquil” attitude. This definition gives us some valuable insight.
Attitudes start in the heart. If our heart is composed, peaceful and tranquil, our words, interactions and behaviors will demonstrate the same. If we are disturbed on the inside, we will create disturbances in the relationships and environments around us. When we manage our attitudes well, we can add length and quality to our lives, and to the lives of others.
Paul taught us that attitudes are chosen by us, not imposed on us. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, we can decide what attitudes will rule us. Paul challenged us to develop the same attitudes Jesus possessed.
What attitudes do we observe in Jesus?
Jesus consistently demonstrated attitudes of faith, submission, selflessness and humility. Even during His toughest times, Jesus keep his heart and mind in the right place. He remained composed, peaceful and tranquil.
When Jesus’ attitudes were threatened, He retreated to the presence of His Heavenly Father for the strength and power to keep His attitudes in check. The classic example of this is Jesus’ prayer time in the Garden of Gethsemane. Before He went to the Cross, Jesus made sure that His heart and head — His attitudes — were where they were supposed to be.
What about us?
Many times our attitudes are tested. A variety of negative thoughts and influences can work their way into our hearts and minds and erode our spiritual and emotional composure, peace and tranquility. If we are not careful, our attitudes “go south,” not only affecting us but infecting people around us.
Good attitudes are especially hard to maintain in tough times. When circumstances seem to be conspiring against us, when people do not treat us the way we believe we should be treated, when there is more “month than money,” when we are weary of waiting for something we desperately want to have or happen, when we have had little time to rest — all these things challenge our attitudes.
What should be our response in times like these? Here are some practical suggestions that help us keep our attitudes where they need to be:
- Keep regular appointments with your Heavenly Father.
- Stay connected to the right people — people who consistently manage their attitudes well and inspire you to do the same.
- Avoid the wrong people — people who have a negative influence on your thinking.
- Schedule time for rest and recreation.
- Count your blessings.
- Trust in God’s love for you.
- Remember, recite and believe the promises of God’s Word.
It has been said that our attitudes affect our altitude in life. With God’s help, grab hold of your attitudes and soar to a new level of living!
Pastor Dale
had 2 great, large and enthusiastic groups of volunteers; one in Gaithersburg and one in Frederick, providing resources and gifts to people for our Christmas Holiday Outreach. At our Gaithersburg Campus the outreach continued on Monday.
