Philippians 2:1-5 (International Standard Version) says, “1Therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any comfort of love, if there is any fellowship in the Spirit, if there is any compassion and sympathy, 2then fill me with joy by having the same attitude, sharing the same love, being united in spirit, and keeping one purpose in mind. 3Do not act out of selfish ambition or conceit, but with humility think of others as being better than yourselves. 4Do not be concerned about your own interests, but also be concerned about the interests of others. 5Have the same attitude among yourselves that was also in Christ Jesus.”

 

 

When thinking about those in ministry within the body of Christ, we can always describe those who we view as the most faithful, anointed and powerful. We have our favorite preachers, and we are familiar with God’s prophets. We know who to go to and call on when we need someone to agree with us in prayer. We plug in our iPhones and listen to the greatest praise and worship bands that we know. However, any of these people can put a blemish on Christianity in the minds of the unchurched and lost when we do not possess the right attitude!

 

Having the right attitude means that our hearts are in total alignment with God’s heart. We do not disrespect those in positions of authority, but we submit to that authority. We follow the golden rule, treating others the way we want to be treated (Matthew 7:12). We humble ourselves, knowing that we do not have all of the answers but rather that we always have something to learn. We walk in love and the unity of the Spirit. We go the extra mile to reach out to those who are hurting and broken. In a nutshell, if we truly have God’s heart, we will respect those in leadership. others around us and even ourselves!

 

Here are some examples of disrespecting authority:

(1) Back talking your parents, teachers, pastors or anyone in leadership
(2) Making excuses as to why you cannot do what you are asked
(3) Criticizing or questioning leadership as if you would do something different and better if you were in their shoes

(4) Complaining or mumbling about leadership because of their decisions or requests they have made to you

 

Here are some examples of disrespecting others:

(1) Gossiping and name calling (an untamed tongue)
(2) Looking down upon others (belittling or bullying)
(3) Discouraging others in their goals and purposes (jealousy)

(4) Not taking the time to help in their time of need (selfish/inconsiderate)

 

Finally, here are some examples of Disrespectful Attitudes Towards Yourself:
(1) Speaking negative over yourself
(2) Listening to people’s lies or opinions of you
(3) Dressing immodestly
(4) Not applying yourself/Doing things half-heartedly

 

This should give us a heart check to see if we are doing what is right in the sight of God to make an impact on those surrounding us. Since we bear the label of Christian, people are watching every move we make and listening to the words we say. Therefore, we must guard our integrity so we can influence others to follow Jesus Christ! Have the right attitude in being the example of Christ to a generation darkened by sin and shame!