Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Attitude

Before my long trip back "home" to Indiana around Thanksgiving time, a dear, sweet friend of mine offered to lend me a CD set of hers called "21 Days: Your Journey to Enjoying Everyday Life" by Joyce Meyer. Wow! Like Joyce Meyer, dislike Joyce Meyer...think she's over the top or think she's spirit filled...either way you should listen to these CDs! I appreciate her straight-forward candor and practicality. The entire CD collection focuses on ATTITUDE.

Joyce says on day 9 (I listened to all 21 days three times now), "Our attitude has everything to do with the outcome of our life. Even though Jesus has provided a great life for every one of us, even though you're saved, if you have a bad attitude-you will miss what God has for you." I feel this is so true! I see myself and so many other Christians missing out on all God has for us because we're too busy grumbling and complaining about the few things in our lives that aren't as "perfect" as we think they should be. We're always waiting for that next "big thing" that's going to happen that will make us happy...all the while missing out on the simple joys of everyday life.

I consider myself a rather grateful person, a rather contented person...a person with a rather positive attitude (usually), but I have to admit that this series of teaching really "hit home." Negative attitudes can sneak up on us so subtly and permeate our lives. It is clear to me that even a wrong attitude in the seemingly small things, can hinder us from enjoying the blessings and fullness of everyday life. We must believe, trust and rejoice in the Lord in all things....and this takes a daily, conscience effort on our part. I'm working on being more consistent in this area! I want my countenance to show the hope, peace and joy I feel in the Lord!

I haven't returned my friend, Jaime's, CDs. I will return them soon with a great big thank you...and a set of my own on order. :) I highly recommend you get your own set too!

Is your attitude "in check" today? Are you thankful and content...even through the seemingly monotonous chores of everyday life? Are you grateful for all of your blessings? I know that life can bring along with it some tough situations, but each of us are blessed as well. Even through tough times, we can choose to have a good attitude (one of thankfulness) regardless of circumstances.

I Timothy 6:6 says, "Yet true religion with contentment is great wealth."

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, "Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice."

Lord, I pray that I will be a light of Your Truth and blessing in this daily journey we call life. I pray that my countenance will show the hope, peace and joy that I feel as I walk daily in your presence. May I make the choice to have an attitude of gratitude even when it doesn't seem easy...remembering all of the blessings you have bestowed upon me and my family. Regardless of circumstances, You are a faithful and true companion. I can trust You and for that I am grateful! Help me to remember that You are enough. Help me to be content with what I have. Help me to recognize all of the blessings in my daily life. I don't want to miss out on the joy and fullness of life you have for me TODAY...in each and every moment. And Lord, I pray this also for all my blog friends! Amen.

4 comments:

  1. Amen! I think I have that series, or one like it. I haven't listened in a long time, maybe I should look for it, and take it on my next road trip! Maybe to Iowa...btw, my husband talked about taking you up on your offer. He loves food, but may love having something to do after work even more~he loves farming, is a mechanic, and a builder...so put him to work if he shows up!
    Love,
    Kathy

    ReplyDelete
  2. Beautifully stated, Rachel. If an upbeat person like yourself found help in Joyce's teaching, think what it would do for the downtrodden! Thanksgiving and a grateful heart really is the key to contentment.

    Have a blessed Christmas, my dear sister!

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