“ATTITUDE CHECK”
(Matthew 5:1 – 8:1; Luke 6:17-49)
“Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them, saying: ‘Blessed are…’” – Matthew 5:1-3
Have you ever heard anyone say “you need an attitude check!”? The term is used in many situations and circumstances, and it usually infers that a person’s mind set, or the way they are acting, needs to be thought through, and changed for the better.
There are times when we can do things “by the book” so to speak, but fall far short of doing what would be best. There are times when the words of our conversation may be decent, but the manner in which we speak isn’t very good. Remember the phrase “it’s not just what you say but how you say it!”
The passages we read in today’s assignment are Jesus’ own specific words, not to the crowds following Him, but rather to His disciples – His closest followers. He shares deep truths with them about their most intimate actions. This passage has been referred to as the Beatitudes – and they are truly instruction on how our attitude should be!
In each beatitude, we learn essentially that if we want to be blessed, we need to go a step further than just simply what would be acceptable. We need to realize that even when things don’t seem to be going our way, God will be there to comfort us and fulfill our needs.
Simple Truth:
It’s time for an attitude check! Think before you act. Engage your mind before you open your mouth! Do your best to be like Jesus!
Reflections & Application:
- Today is a new day – make a deliberate effort today to make your words and actions to be a blessing to those with whom you come in contact.
- How can you “go the extra mile” today to truly reflect the Spirit of Christ within you?
- Let the words of Psalm 19:14 be a reality in you today – “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I am no longer my own, but Yours. Use me for Your glory. Help me to crucify my flesh, and allow Your Spirit to rule and reign in my life. May others see Jesus in everything I do and say. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
About our Author
Tim Satryan has been in full time ministry since 1980. He has served five churches in four states. He has also served as the District Youth and Music Director for the PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God, was the Presbyter for the state of Delaware for over a decade, and for a number of years traveled with the AG Church Multiplication Network, teaching church planting and church revitalization.
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