Today's Devotional
& Prayer

Get an Attitude!

Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.  For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.  In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.  They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.  For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

But the end of all things is at hand; therefore, be serious and watchful in your prayers.  And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”  Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.  As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.  If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.  

                                                                                                                                                 -  1 Peter 4:1-11

"Having an attitude" is not often considered a positive thing. But attitude is essential and good when it's the positive force behind a winning team or it helps you overcome a series of difficulties.

To do God's will, says Peter, we must have an attitude that's the same as Jesus Christ's. We must be armed with an attitude that is ready to suffer. One of the greatest hindrances to fulfilling God's mission today is the church's wealth and ease. Like the seed in Jesus' parable that is "choked by life's ... riches and pleasures" (Luke 8:14), an over-easy church is too soft and comfortable to fight back.

It's amazing, though, that when we learn to expect suffering, we can grow to face it and press through it, in God's strength. Just as the athlete knows that "with no pain, there's no gain," we endure training in Christ's work so that we may "live ... for the will of God."

How ready are you to suffer for Christ? How much discomfort and inconvenience are you willing to endure to support his cause? How much embarrassment will you accept to take a stand for Jesus? Are you willing to sacrifice your desires in order to pursue God's agenda?

Like good soldiers, let's arm ourselves with the attitude of our Lord and Savior. Then let's follow our Captain, who suffered to win us the victory.

The devotional message, “Get an Attitude!”, was written by Mr. Tim Holwerda, and appeared in “Today”, www.today.reframemedia.com; July 28, 2006.  Used here with permission from the website.

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