Do You Have a Christ-like Attitude
Writing from a prison cell, the Apostle Paul penned the following verse, "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). In other words, no matter what unforeseeable distractions, frustrations, and inconveniences come your way, make sure that you respond with a Christ-like attitude. Paul later writes, "Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 2:5). He also urges us in Ephesians 5:1 to be "imitators of Christ as dearly beloved children." Have you ever noticed how children love to "copy" everything they see and repeat everything they hear? In a similar way, we are encouraged to model Christ's behavior and to be clear reflections of the Lord.
Jesus always maintained a perfect attitude in every situation because He prayed about everything and worried about nothing. Prayer was His lifeline. He sought God's guidance about every aspect of His life and allowed the Lord to work out His perfect will without interference. Christ never became defensive, discouraged, or depressed because His goal was to please the Father rather than to achieve His own agenda. In the midst of trials, He was patient. In the midst of suffering, He was hopeful. In the midst of blessing, He was humble. Even in the midst of ridicule, abuse, and hostility He "made no threats . . . and did not retaliate. Instead He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly"
When people see you do they see the Lord in you? Are you reacting to your circumstances in the flesh or responding to life's challenges in the Spirit? God has called us to demonstrate His love through our responses to everyday difficulties. You too can have a Christ-like attitude by asking God for strength and wisdom to appropriately respond to every situation so that ultimately the Lord gets the glory.
