Philippians 2:14-16
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labour in vain.
Our effectiveness as witnesses of Christ in this dark world largely depends on our ATTITUDE. An attitude is one’s mental position or posture towards things, people, events and so forth. It’s how you set your mind towards life. As the saying goes, your altitude (that is, how high you rise) depends on your attitude rather than on your aptitude (your ability). Your attitude is not inherited or automatic. You are not stuck with a lousy attitude. You can choose to begin your day with a positive attitude rather than a negative one.
Above all, as children of God we should intentionally adopt a Christlike attitude (Phil 2:5). Our text today reveals two things such a Christ-honouring attitude avoids. It is such a right attitude that enables us to shine brightly for God in this sin-infested world. Look, sometimes believers’ cutting edge in the world is hampered, not by a lack of anointing, knowledge or skill-but by a bad attitude!
Firstly, our attitude must be WITHOUT COMPLAINT. Good Christians are not grumblers. That means it’s not enough to do the right things; we must also do things right. Let us ditch grumbling in our lives. Refuse to be grumpy. Don’t be critical all the time. That will spoil your testimony!
Secondly, our attitude must be WITHOUT ARGUING. Being controversial can easily creep into a genuine Christian’s life. Don’t argue for the sake of argument. Avoid quarrelling, bickering and squabbling over all sorts of things. In the family, church, friendships and workplace, let us avoid unnecessary disputes. Let us practice being agreeable.
Dear saint, I beseech you by the mercies of God to practice doing everything with a positive attitude. Don’t just give-give cheerfully. Don’t just serve-serve heartily. Don’t just work-work eagerly. Don’t just lead-lead enthusiastically. The Word of God says such a pleasant attitude will enhance your ability to influence others for Christ. And God will be glorified. That should be your and my aim today. Amen?
Pastor Josh