1 Corinthians 10:6-7, 10
The same thing could happen to us. We must be on guard so that we never get caught up in wanting our own way as they did. And we must not turn our religion into a circus as they did—“First the people partied, then they threw a dance.”
We must be careful not to stir up discontent; discontent destroyed them.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
“Attitude…not aptitude…determines altitude.” - Zig Ziglar
Our kids did not get expensive gifts for Christmas this year. Yet more than once, Timothy declared this “…the BEST Christmas EVER!” Our nephew’s wife posted a photo of their 6-month-old daughter, surrounded by Christmas gifts…and playing with a water bottle! While children are often content with the simplest of objects, toys or situations, they are also masters at wanting things their own way – and doing whatever it takes to achieve this. And a lot of us have continued this manipulation into our adulthood.
It might be cute on a 5-year-old or a six-month-old, but selfishness and discord are not attractive traits as we get older. Our 3-year-old Zola was adorable when she told me that she wanted to stay overnight with us…then pointed to 5-year-old Timothy and said, “but I don’t want HIM to stay!” It’s not pretty at all when we adults say, “This person is welcome…but HE/SHE is not!”…based on their appearance, their opinions, their lifestyle choices, and more.
God sent Jesus to earth to share love, grace, mercy, compassion and salvation with ALL of us. Jesus came that we might have abundant, joyful, and peaceful life…that we might get along as brothers and sisters in Him. Just like a child favors some Christmas gifts over others, we won’t always enjoy the presence of every single one of God’s creatures. People and situations will rub us the wrong way at times – even big brothers and little sisters! But when we look UP…when we keep our focus on Jesus and strive to emulate His teachings, our attitude can’t help but improve.
It’s not about you – or me…it’s about Jesus. When we figure this out and call on Him to show us how to make “life” work, we are elevated in His love and grace. Our attitude does indeed determine our altitude. How high are you ready to soar with Jesus?
©2014 Debbie Robus
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