Attitude Makes the Difference: Part 1

Jan 8, 2013 by Jim and Jerolyn Bogear

 

Zig Ziglar passed away November 28, 2012 at 86. He was a motivational guru and challenged us to live life to the fullest. He was also a master at challenging all of us about our attitudes. He always seemed to be positive and upbeat. He is credited with saying, “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” So, how far you go in life is determined by your attitude.

In the Bible there is a story of a man named Nehemiah who was working for a Persian King. He had direct influence with him and became a confidante to the King. Nehemiah does a great job of showing us how attitude makes the difference.

Although he was in the King’s court and was set for life, he felt compelled to go to another location to do what he believed he was to do…to lead a group of people to accomplish a formidable task. This held a high risk and responsibility, but his attitude shows us how to approach life, leadership, and relationships in general.

Four things we observe about Nehemiah’s attitude:

1. He shows a humble attitude before His Creator. He acknowledges that it is not all about himself and that he must first follow before ever attempting to lead. In other words Nehemiah isn’t caught up in an ego, rather he recognizes that he can only do so much and that he needs help. He seeks God to give direction, ability, assistance, and guidance. Nehemiah knows he needs God and others to help him achieve his goal. What attitude do we begin with and how do we come across to others…humble or an all-about-me kind of attitude?
2. He has a positive attitude that is apparent to others. His boss notices one day that he is not himself. He notices because Nehemiah is usually such a positive person. During this time his boss sees that something is bothering him, and the weight of it is heavy for Nehemiah. What kind of attitude do we usually display for others to see? If we are leaders, what kind of attitude culture are we creating and communicating to those around us? How can we choose to be a person of positive attitude? For all of us it is okay to be down from time to time as the weight of whatever is troubling us is real and evident, but that should not be the norm. We can choose our attitude. Nehemiah sets the example of one who chose to have a positive attitude toward life. How about us?

To be continued….

Thursday, January 10, 2013 – Attitude Makes the Difference: Part 2