In our journey of faith, our attitudes play a crucial role in shaping our spiritual lives. The Bible provides us with clear guidance on how we should approach our relationship with God and others. Here are seven key attitudes, illuminated by specific scriptures, that help us cultivate a vibrant spiritual life.
1. Attitude of Rest – Psalm 23:2
“He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.”
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].” (Matthew 11:28)
Rest is essential for our spiritual growth. God invites us to rest in His presence, trust in His provision, and find peace in His care. This rest is not just physical but also spiritual, allowing us to rejuvenate our souls and strengthen our faith.
2. Attitude of Renewal – Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; they will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.”
“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” (Romans 12:2)
Renewal comes from waiting on the Lord. When we place our hope and expectation in Him, He renews our strength and empowers us to soar above life’s challenges. This attitude helps us to remain steadfast and energized in our spiritual journey.
3. Attitude of Learning – Luke 10:39
“And she had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was continually listening to His teaching.”
“The wise will hear and increase their learning, and the person of understanding will acquire wise counsel and the skill to steer his course wisely and lead others to the truth.” (Proverbs 1:5)
Mary’s attitude of learning is a model for us. By sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to His words, we open ourselves to His wisdom and guidance. This attitude fosters a deep and intimate relationship with God, allowing His teachings to transform our lives.
4. Attitude of Joy – Acts 3:8
“And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and he went into the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.”
“Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
Joy is a powerful attitude that reflects our gratitude and delight in God’s blessings. The healed man’s reaction in Acts 3:8 exemplifies the joy that comes from experiencing God’s grace and miracles. This joy becomes a testimony to others and a source of strength for ourselves.
5. Attitude of Steadfastness – Ephesians 6:14
“So stand firm and hold your ground, having tightened the wide band of truth (personal integrity, moral courage) around your waist and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.”
“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Steadfastness is essential in the face of spiritual battles. By standing firm in truth and righteousness, we protect ourselves from the enemy’s attacks and remain faithful to God’s commands. This attitude ensures that we are grounded and unshakable in our faith.
6. Attitude of Perseverance – Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us.”
“Blessed [happy, spiritually prosperous, favored by God] is the man who is steadfast under trial and perseveres when tempted; for when he has passed the test and been approved, he will receive the [victor’s] crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12)
Perseverance enables us to endure hardships and remain committed to our spiritual goals. By shedding the weights and sins that hinder us, we can run our race with determination and focus. This attitude keeps us moving forward, even when the path is difficult.
7. Attitude of Walking in Light – 1 John 1:7
“But if we [really] walk in the Light [that is, live each and every day in conformity with the precepts of God], as He Himself is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.”
“For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light [live as those who are native-born to the Light].” (Ephesians 5:8)
Walking in the light involves living in accordance with God’s precepts and maintaining fellowship with Him and other believers. This attitude ensures that we are transparent, honest, and accountable, allowing God’s light to shine through us and purify us from sin.
Conclusion
By adopting these seven attitudes—rest, renewal, learning, joy, steadfastness, perseverance, and walking in light—we align ourselves with God’s will and cultivate a thriving spiritual life. Each attitude, grounded in scripture, guides us closer to God and strengthens our faith, enabling us to live out His purposes with grace and power.