Maintaining A Good Attitude
[ Selected ]
 June 8, 2003



People are watching how we react to adversity. A successful person is one who can adapt in adversity. In the military they take the men who go through basic training and are the most easily adaptable to harsh conditions and make them elite soldiers, such as the Navy Seals. The most successful people are those who react to adversity in the proper way.

Let's not think on the negative things in life. We need to think on the positive. If we react in the wrong way, there are consequences. People are watching our life. If we allow our temper to get out of control, people will see. If we're sad and depressed all the time, people notice that, and it will leave a mark on their lives. The little boy who pounded the nails in the fence pulled them out, but they still left marks. We can go back and tell people, "I'm sorry that I lost my temper," and they can forgive us, but it will leave a mark. Some people will "hold us" for the things we do. Thank God, we can get right with God, and He does forget, but our reactions still leave marks on people's lives.

Again, we can go back and apologize for losing our temper or for being grumpy or sad all the time, but the scar will still be there. That will make it difficult for people to get help in their souls. We could go to work and witness to people day after day, but if we were to lose our temper because we couldn't have the next Friday off, we would leave a bad impression on those who saw us. Then, the next time we ask, "Will you come to church with us?" they would probably say, "No, definitely not. I don't want what you have."

Yes, our attitude is very important! At times it takes much effort to maintain a good attitude. We work very hard to remain upbeat on the job. Our goal is to smile and think on good things. We might have a really bad day and have to work late, but think on the positive side and keep an upbeat attitude. Often people have asked us, "Why do you smile all the time?" What an opportunity to let them know that it is because we have the Lord. On the other hand, if someone were to ask us, "Why are you so sad all the time?" that person would not want what we have.

The attitude we show in our daily living is a witness to others. We can slowly plant seeds in people's lives. We try to enjoy life and enjoy our job. Even when things are not going well, if we keep the joy of the Lord in our life, we will show people something that they will want.




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