Leading With Optimism

Introduction:

Today we wish to discuss another important key becoming a person of influence: leading w/optimism. We’re describing a person who has his attitude in check, a person who is. disciplined & well aware of his spiritual priorities.  When we speak of attitude we mean: the inward feeling expressed by our behavior. Our attitude is often seen without ever saying a word. Outward actions and expressions can become a “window to the soul.”

I. Our attitude determines our performance.

A.    Our attitude is the primary force that will determine whether we succeed or fail spiritually.

B.    Adopting a good, healthy attitude is essential for our spiritual lives.

1.     1 Tim. 1:12-15 – Paul had terrible background to overcome.

2.     Phil. 3:8-13 - He was focused on “laying hold of Jesus.”

C.    His attitude was essential to his spiritual success!

D.    Phil 4:4 – keep in mind that Paul writing from imprisonment.

1.     Phil. 4:12-13 - It IS possible to tailor make our attitude to fit every situation that life throws out.

E.     This is learned behavior.

II. Attitude helps turn problems into blessings.

A.    When confronted w/a difficult situation – a person w/an outstanding attitude makes the best of it while he gets the worst of it.

B.    Consider the success of these men & the importance of attitude:

1.     Gen. 39-42 – Joseph.  Ex. 2-3 – Moses Mt. 26:69-75 – Peter

2.     The opportunities of life lie directly in our problems!

C.    A positive attitude allows us to handle our problems & failures w/success!

III. Our attitude is not automatically good just because we’re Christians.

A.    We carry around problems of attitude, inner spirit, and motives.

1.     Lk. 15:25-32 – consider prodigal son’s older brother. Are we like him?

2.     He possessed a feeling of self-importance.

3.     He possessed a feeling of self-pity.

B.    Phil. 2:3-8 – look at the attitudes we must possess as Christians

1.     2:3 – do the right things for the right reasons.

2.     2:3 – regard others as more important than yourself

3.     2:4 – look out for the interests of others

4.     2:6 – Jesus realized his Sonship & the need to serve His Father

5.     2:7-8 – Jesus emptied himself, obeyed God, and fulfilled His purpose.

C.    Wrong attitudes block the blessings of God &cause us to live below God’s potential for our lives!

D.    When an attitude of ours “goes south” remember 2 things:

1.     our privilege and our possessions – Lk. 15:31

IV. Our attitude can give us an optimistic perspective!

A.    It’s our attitude of faith/trust in God that allows us to be optimistic!

B.    Future not only looks bright when our attitude is right – but the present is also much more enjoyable!

Conclusion:

A.    Daily we can become people of influence.

B.    Are you aiming toward spiritual success? Phil. 3:8-13