Attitude Check

Have you ever said to yourself, “If I just had more money, I would be happy,” or “If I had done things differently, I would be happy?” or “If this person or that person would change, everything would be fine.”  The error in this thinking is that external factors have very little to do with our contentment.  Experiencing difficulties will either harden us to life or soften us to become more caring.  At some point in life, we will need to choose what kind of attitude we will form in response to life’s unexpected events. 

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28 NIV)

Our attitude and perspective in life can be like medicine that heals or like poison that kills.  When we look at our circumstances is our instant response positive or negative?  When we look at those around us do we first see their gifts or their faults?  Are we cynical? The cynic trusts no one and is suspicious even of the best intentions of others. There is no doubt we will face problem people along life’s path, but if we will seek God, He will give us discernment in handling situations that we are uncertain about.