Attitude in Adversity
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23
When someone cuts me off in traffic I can allow a flash of anger to take root and explode into road rage or give the culprit the benefit of the doubt. Maybe s/he didn’t see me, especially if I was in that darn blind spot. Or maybe s/he had an emergency of some sort that it’s of utmost importance that s/he get there quickly.
When I smile at someone and they scowl in return, I can allow it to change my attitude and feel resentment or I can, again, give her/him the benefit of the doubt. Maybe s/he was so burdened by something heavy that s/he didn’t notice the smile from a stranger. Maybe her/his world doesn’t revolve around the smile from this woman. Really? Someone’s world not revolving around me? 🙂 And how many times have I been in that situation where the roles were reversed.
When someone says something unflattering about me in the office, do I get spiteful and begin to form that nasty grudge, or do I brave to look inward. Were my behavior or words harsh and unloving? Did I act in an ungodly manner? If yes, then I need to take responsibility for my poor judgment and make amends. If not, then there’s nothing I can do except be sure and act in a loving, godly manner, lifting that person up in prayer.
Attitude in adversity, or when our back is against the wall, reveals our true character. Impossible to shine in tarnished situations? No. Difficult? Yes! But with practice comes improvement. Today, I will practice that my character reflect Christ’s light within me.
Peace to you.
I’ve been trying to have a better outlook on a lot of things lately. I’ve noticed it helps keep me in a better mood throughout the day. I have slipped…more than once…okay, more than about a hundred times, but I think it’s a work in progress. Just like any other habit, it takes awhile to stick. 🙂
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I’m right there with you on the hundred times… 🙂
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That can be so hard to do! Something we should definitely all strive for though….
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A daily work in progress here. 🙂
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A nice start to the A-Z challenge, and a very positive outlook. 🙂 I agree–life is too short, anyway, to hold grudges or choose battles not worth fighting. All the best to you.
Alex Hurst, fantasy author in Japan, participating in Blogging A-Z April Challenge.
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Thank you Alex. To you as well. 🙂
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It’s easy to have a great attitude during the good times. Not so easy in those times of adversity. Nicely set out.
Minion here, checking in to see how the A to Z is treating you. Seems it’s treating you quite well.
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Thank you. 🙂
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May joy peace and happiness be yours friend.
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Thank you. Yours as well.
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Lovely Post, I try to have this attitude, I don’t always succeed, but I try so my children can hopefully learn a positive approach to life.
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That is the best reason in the world to try. 🙂
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