Tuesday 6 January
Living with a New Attitude
Scripture Reference:
Philippians 2:3-8
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
Matthew 20:28
28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Romans 12:16
16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
A positive attitude can significantly improve our lives. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are new creations, which allows us to view all parts of our lives with a fresh perspective. We are also instructed to learn about the attitude we should adopt, which can change how we approach life and bring lasting positivity.
In chapter 2 of Philippians, Paul writes that we should approach life with the same attitude as Jesus. Our natural tendency is to be selfish in thought and deed, looking after our own interests and considering ourselves more important than others. This attitude can destroy relationships, harm our integrity, and bring shame to God.
Jesus, on the other hand, emptied Himself of the glory He had as the Sovereign Lord of the universe and became one of us. His humility was displayed from the moment of His birth in a manger. He demonstrated the heart of a servant as He surrendered His earthly life to the sacrificial death on the cross, paving the way for us to be forgiven of our sins and come into the presence of God without hindrance. He willingly gave all of Himself for the sake of humanity. Now, He lives in the hearts of those who have given their lives to Him.
Call to Action
Spend time in God’s presence. Pray and ask the Lord to reveal the areas of your life where you need a new attitude. Don’t rush. The Holy Spirit may bring to your attention places where you need to ask for forgiveness for being selfish. Repent, ask and receive forgiveness. Allow the Lord to do this healing work in you.
Make notes or journal two ways in which you will demonstrate the new attitudes in your life. Ask the Lord to help you be consistent.
End this time worshipping the Lord.