What is Your Attitude Reading?
What is your attitude indicator reading? Airplanes have a gauge that reflects the attitude of the plane in flight. It shows the position of the aircraft in relation to the horizon. When the airplane is climbing it is “nose-high” and it is “nose-down” when diving. The attitude of the aircraft indicates its performance.
People also demonstrate attitudes which affect their “flight.” But where do we look to find our attitude reading? The answer is in the Bible. It is in the letter of Paul to the Christians at Philippi. He wrote, “Let this mind (attitude) be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5) The Lord gave us a perfect example to follow in verses 3-8 of that passage. He was selfless (vv.3-4); secure (vv. 6-7); and submissive (v. 8). The apostle indicates that these qualities were exhibited in Christ’s life because of His attitude (v. 5). How do you get to that attitude? Romans 12:1-2 exhorts all Christians to become a living and holy sacrifice and to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The psalmist David learned how to be successful even when surrounded by problems. The secret is praise. Psalm 34:1-3 reveals a three-fold process of praise. First, praise begins with the will—“I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” His attitude was to rejoice regardless of the situation. Second, praise flows to the emotions—“My soul shall make its boast in the LORD.” Now David is praising not only because it is right to do, but also because he now feels like it. Third, praise spreads to others—“The humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together.” The remainder of that psalm records David giving testimony of how God delivered him from all his problems. Dr. John Maxwell wrote, “Attitude living says my attitude dictates my performance.” What effect is your attitude having on your service to Jesus?
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.