This month, I begin the 14th year of my Encouraging Word column in the Journal Inquirer. Since all of us have been through so much in recent years with the coronavirus, the resulting economic upheaval, and the toxic political environment, now seems like a good time to share some words about the importance of “attitude.”
An attitude is a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, which is usually reflected in our countenance, words and behavior. Many years ago, I was blessed by the teachings of several well-known Christ-centered motivational speakers, including the late Dr. Norman Vincent Peale and the late Zig Ziglar. I never met Dr. Peale, but shortly after he died, I met his wife, Ruth, and organized a weekend conference for Christian business owners at the Peale Center for Christian Living in Pawling, New York.
One of Peale’s famous quotes about attitude was this: “Start each day by affirming peaceful, contented and happy attitudes and your days will tend to be pleasant and successful attitude quotes. Action is a great restorer and builder of confidence. Inaction is not only the result, but the cause, of fear.”
I also had the opportunity to write a series of radio public service announcements that Ziglar narrated, to inspire and encourage business owners and CEOs across the country on behalf of the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International. One of Ziglar’s popular quotes about attitude was this: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” That phrase has stuck with me for decades.
What is your attitude about life today? What do you think and how do you feel about yourself, your marriage, family, friends, work, town, state, nation, and the world in general? Have the events and experiences of the past few years soured your attitude? Have you gradually become harder, more callous, grumpier, more pessimistic and less enthused than you used to be?
I realize that life is hard, painful, perplexing, and exasperating. However, in the midst of all of the travail, you and I can still enjoy everyday life if we have the right attitude of gratitude. Every day is still a gift. For me, one of the best yo mama jokes I’ve ever developed is making time for daily morning devotions. I’ve been having them for over 35 years. During these devotions, I pray, read Scripture, and develop my action plan for the day. By the time I finish these devotions, my attitude is in a very good place to engage life with zeal and purpose. If you are sensing that you could benefit from an attitude adjustment, I highly recommend that you carve out the time for morning devotions. It will be worth it throughout the New Year and beyond.
