Your Attitude: Chore or Privilege

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.  Philippians 2: 5-7

The word ‘servant’ is not considered an honorable word or profession in today’s world.  In fact, those who serve are often looked upon by the masses as inferior and ignorant.

The time of my memorizing the above passage (I actually memorized it to verse 11) began a crucial and necessary change in my life.  This was from an attitude of moaning a chore, to eventually one of praising God for the privilege to serve.

For instance… If I was enjoying fellowship with others, but had also given my word that I would help out or participate in another commitment, I would begin to think — “Should I linger a little while longer here, or should I move myself on to my next commitment?”

I used to reason (excuse) myself with thoughts like… “I give so much all the time… This is just another chore laden onto my already sagging shoulders… I know all that’s required, so I don’t really need to be there right yet… This is a poor use of my talents… This is not really part of my job… I am out of patience with these constant needs… I can quickly grasp what needs doing, so I can stay and enjoy myself a little longer”.  And on and on I would go talking myself into procrastinating on my commitment.

Now, how do you think my attitude came across to others who were waiting for me to do what I said I would do?  One thing for certain is I was setting myself apart from those involved by indirectly saying that I had more on my shoulders than they had on theirs.  I was, and rightfully so, viewed as part of the problem, not part of the solution.  I showed a lack of caring for other peoples time, as well as their well being.  If I was feeling put upon, perhaps it was because I had taken on more work than I was able to handle, or managing my time incorrectly.

As I memorized this passage of Scripture, it had a life-changing effect on me.  The words ‘your attitude’ popped out at me every time I began to moan and groan about the demands on my time.

Change did not come easily, but slowly and surely every time that Scripture popped into my mind, I would work hard at changing my attitude.  Looking at it through Jesus eyes as a privilege to serve, began to bring me unexpected blessings.

My attitude to serving changed from one of duty to one of privilege.  Harmony replaced discord in my life; I was no longer a burden to those around me as we worked together to get the job done.  Action replaced my inaction; My work at home was more productive leaving me with more time for relaxing respites, replenishing my energy.

Following Jesus into servant-hood brought me (and others around me) peace and joy, while the weight on my shoulders (as I’m sure it was on others) was lifted.

Do you feel overburdened, used, put upon, your talents wasted?

Perhaps you too need a change in attitude.

I love the Mercy Me song ‘Here Am I’ from their album Almost There.  The chorus goes… Whom shall I send, Who will go for me, To the ends of the earth, Who will rise up for the King?  Here am I… send me, Here am I… send me!

Perhaps you have never said these words for fear of being taken up on them.  I urge you to do so, and to memorize Philippians 2:5-11.

It will have a positive, life-changing effect on your attitude.     Syb Brodie

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