How's your attitude? By Ps Jim Jung

How’s your attitude?

In his book Attitude 101, John Maxwell says, “Several things…are not contagious: talent, experience, and willingness to practice. But you can be sure of one thing: Attitude is catching.” [1]

 

If we are carriers of an attitude contagion, we had better ensure that it is one that we would be pleased to pass on. The Apostle Paul was able to use Jesus as his greatest example when he says:

^“5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. ⁶ Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.⁷ Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, ⁸ he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8 NLT)

 

Everyday Jesus was confronted with people filled with doubt, fear, anger, resentment, rejection and hurt. It is obvious throughout the gospels that Jesus was moved with compassion for those He met, but He never allowed His convictions to be swayed by the circumstances He was presented. His attitude crafted His behaviour.

 

Maxwell says that:

• “Our attitude determines our approach to life
• Our attitude determines our relationship with people
• Often our attitude is the only difference between success and failure
• Our attitude can turn our problems into blessings
• Our attitude can give us an uncommonly positive perspective.
• Your attitude is not automatically good because you are a religious person” [1]
   
  Jesus Christ displayed these attributes, and now He calls you and me to emulate the life He lived. The attitude contagion of Christ continues to be available to everyone who seeks for it. Scripture tells me that if I ask, I will receive (i.e. Matthew 7:7-8).
   
  [1] Maxwell, John, C. Attitude 101. What every leader needs to know. (Nashville, TN: Nelson, Inc.: 2003). 6, 15-25.