The Connection Between Thoughts and Attitude

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:5

“I don’t like her”.

I didn’t start out with that attitude. But by the time I rehashed my reasons for disagreeing with her idea for the tenth time, that’s where I ended up. Suddenly, I began questioning her motives and her character.

Attitude is a powerful thing. It goes hand in hand with thoughts, and if one is negative, the other will also be negative. You will never be able to maintain a positive attitude while you are having negative thoughts, and vice versa.

However, as Christians, we are not expected to simply change our thoughts on our own. We do have to put forth some effort in acknowledging that our thought patterns are going in the wrong direction and choosing to change their direction, but then we have the Holy Spirit who works in us to change our thoughts.

“Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” Ephesians 4:23

It is important to have faith that if you turn your thoughts and attitudes over to the Holy Spirit, He can change them.

Wondering how you can have a mindset like Jesus in your relationships, especially with other Christians (who we sometimes hold to higher standards)? Here are a few examples from 1 Peter 3:8

• Sympathize with each other. Respond to the needs of others at every opportunity that you can. Keep your ears and heart open to someone who needs help but may never ask for it.  Pray for understanding of their situation.
• Love each other as brothers and sisters. Accept the differences that could cause division, and choose to love and help those around you. Celebrate the things that you have in common.
• Be tenderhearted. Show compassion for others as they are going through joyful or tough seasons in life. 
• Keep a humble attitude. Encourage others and rejoice in their success. Be gentle when dealing with others. Think more of others and less of yourself (Philippians 2:3).

The Holy Spirit will help you develop these attitudes as you choose to depend on Him. That is why it takes faith: even on the days where you feel like you've failed completely, you can get up and start over.

What negative thoughts have you had recently that are having an effect on how you view another person or group of people?