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Presented by Lisa Bishop
We are examining the 5 attitudes for everyday life, and today let’s look at what the apostle Paul writes about having a Christ-like attitude.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:3-5).
These verses challenge us to align our attitudes with the very heart and mind of Jesus. They’re a reminder we are called to reflect Jesus in our daily lives.
But what does it mean to have a Christ-like attitude?
First, it means embracing humility. Even though he was God, Jesus didn’t cling to his divine privileges. Instead, he emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7). A Christ-like attitude doesn’t elevate self, seek status or recognition, but is willing to serve others selflessly. When we have an attitude like Jesus we find joy in lifting others up. We find ways to be generous with our words, our finances, our resources, and our time, even when it costs us something.
Second, a Christ-like attitude is marked by love and compassion. Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus moved with compassion, whether he’s feeding the hungry, healing the sick, or comforting the brokenhearted. His love wasn’t conditional or reserved for those who thought the same way he did or could give him something in return. Jesus’s love was freely given to all. In our daily lives, we are called to mirror this love—offering grace, kindness, and forgiveness, even when it’s hard or we think someone does not deserve it.
Third, a Christ-like attitude is characterized by obedience and surrender to God’s will. Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, not my will, but yours be done (Luke 22:42). He was obedient to the point of death on a cross. Similarly, we are called to surrender our desires and plans to God, trusting his ways are higher, and his plans are perfect. This requires a heart that is willing to listen, to be led, and to follow wherever he may guide us.
Living with a Christ-like attitude isn’t easy when we operate in the flesh. It requires renewing our heart and mind with God’s Word and prayer, abiding in Jesus, and relying on the Holy Spirit. As we grow in our relationship with God, we display more of his character. We reflect his heart, and our attitudes bring glory to him in everything we do.
