Faith & Reason Nexus

Improper Attitudes

While proper attitudes toward spiritual growth help advance the cause of Christ, improper attitudes can have a detrimental effect. They hinder both personal growth and the broader impact on others. Here are some ways improper attitudes can hinder spiritual progress:

1. They Hinder the Impression Made on the Outside World

• Effect: A negative or unChristlike attitude can lead the outside world to view Christianity in a poor light. Instead of drawing others to Christ, improper attitudes can turn them away from the faith.
• Scriptural Reference: Matthew 5:14-16 reminds us that we are the light of the world, and our actions and attitudes should shine brightly to draw others to Christ.

2. They Hinder Christians in Reaching Their Lost Loved Ones

• Effect: A Christian’s poor attitude can prevent them from effectively reaching out to family and friends who are lost. When the message of Christ is not backed by a loving, gracious spirit, it becomes less persuasive.
• Scriptural Reference: 1 Peter 3:1-2 highlights how a gentle and respectful attitude can win over those who do not yet know Christ.

3. They Hinder a Congregation’s Local Work and Mission Work

• Effect: When individuals within a congregation harbor improper attitudes, it can cause division, weaken fellowship, and hinder the church’s mission work. Instead of being a united force for the Gospel, internal strife can make the church ineffective in outreach.
• Scriptural Reference: Philippians 1:27 calls for the church to “stand firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

4. They Hinder One’s Own Spiritual Growth

• Effect: Negative attitudes, such as pride, bitterness, or unforgiveness, stunt personal spiritual growth. When we fail to cultivate the right attitudes, it becomes difficult to grow in Christ and experience the fullness of His blessings.
• Scriptural Reference: James 1:21 urges us to “lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”

5. They Hinder the World from Seeing the Right Attitudes

• Effect: A lack of proper attitudes can create confusion for the world. Instead of seeing a reflection of Christ’s love, grace, and humility, others may witness behaviors that contradict the message of the Gospel.
• Scriptural Reference: Philippians 2:5-8 shows how Christ’s humility and obedience should be modeled in our attitudes toward others.

6. They Hinder People from Wanting to Know More About God’s Will

• Effect: If we live with improper attitudes, such as hypocrisy or inconsistency, it can make others reluctant to explore God’s will. Instead of being a witness to God’s truth, our actions may discourage them from seeking a deeper relationship with God.
• Scriptural Reference: Titus 2:7-8 encourages believers to show themselves as examples of good works, with integrity and sound speech that cannot be condemned, thereby influencing others toward God.

In summary, improper attitudes can have far-reaching consequences, both for the individual and the broader community of believers. They create obstacles to spiritual growth, hinder the work of the Church, and prevent the outside world from seeing the love of Christ in action. It is essential that we cultivate the right attitudes in order to fulfill the mission of Christ and grow spiritually.