Attitudes. Actions. And Feelings.

On the John Maxwell leadership facebook page is this important reminder from one of his colleagues.

“Attitude plays a crucial role in shaping our emotional responses to different situations. The way we react to events and circumstances is largely influenced by our attitude towards them.”

The author, who I believe is Chris Robinson, speaks to the issue of our feelings as it relates to both our attitude as well as our actions.

“Having a positive attitude doesn’t necessarily mean we won’t feel upset or sad at times, but it does mean that we won’t allow those feelings to hold us back. We can choose to acknowledge our emotions, accept them, and move forward with a positive mindset. By adopting a can-do attitude, we can overcome obstacles, achieve our goals, and live a fulfilling life.”

“Our attitude also affects how we perceive the world around us. When we maintain a positive outlook, we’re more likely to see opportunities rather than obstacles. We become open to new experiences, relationships, and ideas. We attract positive energy and attract people who share our mindset. By focusing on the good in our lives, we can shift our attention away from negative thoughts and emotions. Our attitude can change our reality, and by choosing to see the good, we can create a better life for ourselves and those around us.”

“It’s important to remember that our attitude is not fixed; we can choose to change it at any time. When we encounter difficult situations, we can choose to focus on the positive rather than the negative. We can reframe our thoughts and find solutions instead of dwelling on the problem. By practicing gratitude and positivity, we can gradually shift our mindset and reap the benefits of a more optimistic outlook. So, let’s embrace a positive attitude and allow it to keep our feelings from stopping us from achieving our dreams and goals.”

While the advice from this post is directed toward our lives in general and business leaders specifically, it has a great application in our spiritual lives. After all, for the Christian how do you separate your spiritual life, from your professional, family, or social interactions?

Approximately 1,000 years before Christ, Solomon said, “As a man thinks in his heart so is he” (Prov. 23:7). That speaks to one’s attitude, outlook and frame of mind that forms his character.

In his explanation of the new man in Christ, Paul said it is necessary to “be renewed in the attitude of your mind” (Eph. 4:23). This is a constant, continual, every day challenge.

The nature and character of the Christian attitude can best be summed up and exemplified in the character of Christ Himself. So, Paul admonished, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5).

Thus, fleeting feelings should never override attitudes and actions that are founded in faith. When our attitude is spiritually minded instead of carnally minded, then we will subdue feelings that threaten to undermine our priorities, subvert our values, cripple our character, and destroy our faith.

Don’t be fooled by your feelings. Arm yourself with the same attitude as He who left us an example to follow in His steps.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman