Attitude Adjustment

“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11.
Have you checked your attitude lately?  Especially during this busy, holiday, gift-buying season, it’s easy to start acquiring a Grinch-like persona. Instead of visions of sugarplums and neatly wrapped presents we start moaning about how much there is to do, how little time we have to do it in, and how no one appreciates your  efforts anyway.  Sounds like a wonderful time for an attitude adjustment.  Paul wrote this to grumblers, people who were feeling put upon, selfish and anything but humble, within the early church.  In an attempt to restore unity he gently, lovingly gave believers this “kick in the pants”.  Instead of saying, “Shape up, you spoiled babies!”, he turned their attention to Christ.  Jesus, who could have called on his royal status to make him feel better, didn’t.  In fact, instead of claiming nepotism, he actually lowered himself to the role of a servant, humbling himself, obediently to God’s plan, a plan that led to an ignominious death, and our salvation. After hearing this impassioned plea, I bet  those grumblers were feeling mighty ashamed and conviction led them to desire the attitude of Christ.  When you feel your attitude taking a nose dive, remember Jesus probably felt unappreciated too, from time to time.  The difference is, he didn’t let it get the best of him…Praise God!!  So, keep this verse close by, and enjoy this blessed season…hey, if the Grinch can change, so can you!!