Effort and Attitude

It seems like there is less and less that we can control in this world. The direction of society and the consequences thereof are heading in so many different ways at a break-neck speed. Fortunately for those that have received Jesus as their Savior, we have the assurance of who is actually in control. With that, we still read in God's Word how we can impact our own lives even when we feel things are headed (or already) out of control. Whether it is at home, your job or place of worship, all of us have control over two vital components that have the power to impact every single day of our lives: EFFORT and ATTITUDE.

In the Bible, God talks about both of these. He gives clear direction on what our efforts and attitudes should be and how both can and will impact the quality of our lives. Let us first look at the effort God expects from us. The first question we should ask ourselves is, "effort towards what?" The answer is simple: life. Proverbs 16:3 tells us to Commit (y)our works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established. In other words, whatever you are working on in life, do it for the glory of the Lord. And when you do, He will guide your path. How amazing is it to know that our effort has a direct impact on the quality and clarity of our lives!

Second, and maybe more important is the attitude with which we approach everyday. Have you ever noticed how the world's attitude depends heavily on how it is being treated? Most people will only display a positive attitude when everything and everyone is going their way. Proverbs 17:22 provides some sound medical advice, A cheerful heart is good medicine,

but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Modern science (as it has done many times) proves the validity of the bible: our attitude impacts our mental and emotional wellness.

In contrast to the world, the attitudes of believers do not have to be determined by their problems, but by the identity that they have as a child of God. With that power, the things that happen to us do not control us. Unless we let them...

Pastor Aaron