Adopt a New Attitude

Adopt a New Attitude
… a new beginning! 
Terry R. Baughman

“Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8–9).

Paul encouraged us, “Meditate on these things,” thus demonstrating the potential for choice in the shaping of our mental state. We are often inundated with negative influences, suggestive messages, and blatantly sinful attacks in media and culture. There are plenty of things to think about, however, we can choose to fill our mind with a different voice. God’s Word is readily available by print, in digital format and even recorded media. There are numerous Christian music alternatives on radio and on streaming devices. These are just a few ways that we can make choices about our thought life. We can guard the eye and the ear gates to filter the abundant influences that we receive every day. When we are thinking properly we have the assurance of a better attitude and a productive spirit.

Our success in life has a lot to do with attitude. A positive mental attitude goes a long way in developing our self-image and shaping our relationships. Individuals with a dour attitude are often ignored or avoided. There is something about possessing  a great attitude that attracts others and causes them to seek your company. 

Attitude is a choice and we can either surrender to negative, self-defeating attitudes, or we can choose to be positive in our outlook and optimistic about the challenges we are facing. 

Some choose to go through life as a Christian having a defeated, unworthy, overwhelmed attitude when in reality Christian living can be the most productive, encouraging, and purpose-filled life anyone can enjoy. It almost seems like we feel guilty about enjoying life and somehow feel more spiritual if we are suffering and crying about our condition.

The Scripture is clear. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). An abundant life is a fulfilled life! We can choose to live life to the fullest and embrace both opportunities and challenges, or we can surrender to the lie of the enemy, living in fear and dread of what may happen, wallowing in despair over our situation.

Adoption is a choice. People choose to take children into their hearts and homes. With that same love and openness to embrace change we are challenged to adopt a new attitude. Embrace the unknown and seize the circumstances. We have every reason to rejoice and every opportunity to improve our lives. When Jesus promised an abundant life He meant it. 

A new beginning starts with a decision to change. Alter your attitude, commit to His Word, and walk in His promises. Choose life, and choose to embrace the opportunities of today. Make that choice today. Choose change and adopt a new attitude with eternal results! 
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Scripture:
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4 NIV).

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