Writing from a prison cell in Rome, the apostle Paul wrote about the attitude a Christian should have. Whatever happens, “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27). The context here is a reference to whether Paul can come to visit the Philippians or not. The principle for us is that no matter what unexpected disruptions, frustrations, or difficulties come our way, we are instructed to respond with a Christ—like attitude. According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, "attitude" means "an internal position or feeling with regard to something (or someone) else." Other words often used as synonyms are: "disposition, feeling, mood, opinion, sentiment, temper, tone, perspective, frame of mind, outlook, view, or morale." In essence, your attitude is your inward disposition toward other things, such as people or circumstances. The apostle Paul said we should be standing firm and striving for the faith and not allowing the circumstances we experience to develop a negative attitude within us. We are also reminded: "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." (Prov. 23:7). In reality, no one else really knows the thoughts of your heart, except you and God. Consequently, attitude is something that only you and God can work out—a change which must take place inwardly and only you can really initiate it.
Either we learn to control our attitude, or our attitude will ultimately control us (Galatians 5:15-25). We can’t always control the circumstances in life, but we can control our attitude and responses (Philippians 2:14; 4:8-9). Our attitudes are something that we can consciously evaluate and choose to change if we desire. But unfortunately, many never really take the time, or apply the discipline that it takes to control and change our attitude. Paul later writes that our attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:5). He is talking about demonstrating humility and selflessness in all relationships. When Paul writes that our “attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus,” he had summarized in the previous two verses what such an attitude was: selflessness, humility, and service. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4). We are reminded: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off the old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds." (Ephesians 4:22 NIV)
Attitude is everything, in that it reveals the location of our heart. What is our attitude? Is it focused in a way that we do indeed conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ? Published in 2008, “A Century of Spin”, co-authors David Miller and William Dinan very accurately write, “Of all the transcendent powers that shape our modern lives, propaganda is the most powerful and insidious." Advertisers have effectively used this strategy for many years because they know, over time, it influences our behavior—our attitudes—as we choose products and services. Corporations and now even governments worldwide spend enormous amounts of money to control the narrative. It’s all about controlling the narrative—that is, it is all about telling your side of the story and repeating it enough to influence people’s attitude. I dare say we all, to some degree, are influenced by the narratives of our society which is entirely under the influence of our adversary (Revelation 12:9; 2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Without doubt, the world we live in is becoming more evil, and it is not going to getting any better (2 Timothy 3:1-4; 2 Peter 3:3-4). As such, we have to understand the narrative of society is in direct conflict with the narrative of God (Romans 8:7). Jeremiah 7:9 reminds us of our natural heart, which leads me to this question. Have we in God’s church made Satan’s job easier by not working harder to examine and control our own attitudes?
The narratives and attitudes of today are separating people, causing divisions, even hatred (Matthew 24:12-13 illustrate a cause-and-effect relationship). Masks, no masks; vaccinated, unvaccinated, etc., are among the many divisive things driving narratives on all sides and it is affecting the attitudes even among God’s people. We need to be super careful that we don’t allow our thoughts and words to become so focused on the evils around us that we forget God’s narrative. We recently finished God’s annual Sabbaths for this year, illustrating the incredible love of God and our hope in His awesome plan. Remember, Jesus Christ came to spread the gospel—the good news, not the bad news! Focus on this gospel; focus on the Body of Jesus Christ constructively (carefully consider all aspects of Hebrews 10:19-26). I will repeat the question from the previous paragraph. Have we in God’s church made Satan’s job easier by not working harder to examine and control our own attitudes? Regardless of your first thought, before continuing; pause and consider this very important question. Our attitude is perhaps far more important than we may at first consider.
There is such a constant barrage of negative propaganda in our society today driving a narrative of divisiveness. How do we maintain a positive outlook in such a negative world? It is not easy, but we must control the narrative and reframe our thoughts as Paul says in Romans 12. We must not be conformed to this world but rather transformed into His likeness through the renewing of our mind (v2). We also find God’s instruction for controlling our attitude throughout His written word. As God commissions Joshua, He tells him, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:8-9).
Joshua’s attitude—his conversation was to remain focused on reciting aspects of God’s inspired words. This is true for us as well; does this make up the primary parts of our conversation, especially with our brothers and sisters in Christ? Joshua is told to meditate on these words day and night and to do them. This is also true for us, as is the promise God gives him. If he does, God will make his way prosperous, and he will have good success. God commands him and us all: "Be positive, be strong; do not afraid, nor dismayed - for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go!" We are the children of God (Galatians 3:26)! He is right here with us wherever we go (Isaiah 41:10; Deuteronomy 31:6; Romans 8:38-39; Zephaniah 3:17; Matthew 6:25-34; 28:20; Psalm 23:4); Jeremiah 29:11. Wow! Knowing this, our attitude—our conversations should be overwhelmingly positive, hopeful, and optimistic as we wait eagerly for our citizenship in God’s Kingdom!
Consider how our attitude should be towards:
I would like to conclude this pastor’s message with a very precious reminder: “Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:6-8)
Therein really is the key by which we can control our attitude, we must take back control of the narrative, and “think on these things.” Our minds, attitudes and conversation should stay focused on the positive — things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report. As members of God’s family, on an individual basis it is up to us to take back control of the narrative, reframe our attitude, and focus our thoughts and conversation on ‘these things’ that glorify God. Let’s make a diligent effort to do so, as Jesus tells us in John 16, we are going to have tribulation in this world; but be of good cheer—be positive—for He has overcome the world! Fear not little flock for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom (Luke 12:32). As things get more challenging, and the narrative continues on a negative path, it is worth keeping at the forefront of our minds; if God is for us, who or what can be against us?