Philipian2verse5: ’Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:’
Once again I welcome you to another powerful discussion today on the subject of developing a better attitude. In our last lesson we talked about some of the things that are involved in the construction of our attitudes but today by his grace we will be examining in details some of the things that shapes or mold our attitude. If you are ready for this off we go!
THE THINGS THAT SHAPES OR MOLDS OUR ATTITUDES
The following materials are used in the making of an attitude:
- My Personality or Temperament (WHO I AM). Ps.139v13-14; Eph.2v10. Your understanding of who you are influences your attitude a lot. Personality is the face we show to others or outward expression of ourselves. Temperament is the combination of traits inherited from our parents and that subconsciously affects our behavior. So what I am saying in a nutshell is that your type of personality also influence your attitude greatly. So do you know who you are as a person?
- My Environment (What’s Around Me). The foundation of our attitude is laid in the kind of environment we live or was born. The environment you live will also contribute to the kind of attitude that you will possess. This is why you should be very intentional about the kind of environment that you operate in. Is your environment a good one or not a friendly one?
- The kind of words that I hear (What I Hear). The kind of words we hear have a tremendous influence on our attitude (Rom.10v17; Job 6v25; Matt.12v37; Lk.8v18a; Mk.4v24a; Matt.8v8). Words are much more powerful than what one thinks because it also shapes our attitude generally speaking.
- Adult Acceptance or Affirmation (What I feel). Rom.5v8; Jer.31v3; Jn.15v13. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. People seldom remember what their teacher said to them but they do remember how they loved them. As a human being the feeling to be accepted is something everyone craves for, therefore anything that will affect this negatively is not good for your attitude.
- Self-image (How I see Myself). Rom.12v3; Pro.23v7. It’s impossible to perform consistently in a manner inconsistent with the way we see ourselves. Self-image is a major parameter in the making of our attitude (Num.13v31-33). So my dear friends how do you see yourself ? A winner or a loser! A victor or a victim.
- Exposure to New Experiences (Opportunities for Growth) Phil.3v13-14. Yes the kind of exposure to new experiences also helps in shaping your attitude generally speaking. So how mindful are you about these opportunities?
- My association with my peers and others (who influences me) Pro.18v24: 27v17: 17v17; Eccl.4v9. What others indicate about their perceptions of us affect how we perceive ourselves. It is a known fact that you become like those you closely associate with either enhance or bring down your attitude.
- Physical Appearance (How we look to others). Gen.29v16-17: 39v6; 1Sam.9v2; 1Sam.16v12.
- Marriage, family, job or careers (our security and status). These three areas of your life can determine your attitude to a large extent. So my dear friends, you need to pay special attention to them, so that your attitude can be better and stronger.
- Adjustments (changes that I need to make) either spiritual, emotional or physical. Yes, the adjustments that you are willing to make can also contribute positively to the development of a better attitude in your life. So my dear friends, this is where I will be drawing the curtains on our discussion today. I pray that you will truly experience a transformation in your attitudes for the better in Jesus name, amen.
Other Scriptural References: Pro23v7; Eph4v23; Philip4v8; Rom12v16; Col3v14.
Prayer for Today: Holy Spirit, help me in paying attention to the things that shapes and molds my attitude in Jesus name, amen.
CONFESSION: Thank you for this timeless truths and revelation. As I become a doer of this words, my transformation and change will be evident to all. Thank you Jesus for empowering my attitude for the better. Thank you for my moment of change has come!
Yemi Adeoti is a pastor, teacher, life coach and mentor & also a prolific writer.
Amen