We have ushered in a new century--the 21st. Many members of the Lord's church are concerned about what the future holds for God's people. I have always believed that a church cannot grow from the outside until it grows from the inside. Attitude plays a pivotal role in how church members work together. Let me share with you some suggestions for improving attitudes within the church.
Accept that all members--including me--are not perfect! Too many find fault on every hand because they are searching for the perfect church. Churches are made up of human beings who can and do make mistakes. Remember Paul's words to the Philippian church. "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4)
Look for encouragement from the stronger members--not from the weakest. Too many Christians compare themselves to weak church members. In this way, we convince ourselves that we are spiritually strong. Why not compare our love to the love of Christ; our determination to Paul's determination, or our hearts to the heart of the great prophet, Jeremiah? Each of us sees the weakness in others. Do we see our own? Let's try to compare ourselves to God's standard, not to one another.
When there is work to be done, rather than waiting for others to volunteer, offer to help! Some of us are quick to criticize when things don't seem to be getting done. But do we offer to help? Don't wait for the others. Step up to the plate and be first.
Strive to become better acquainted with more of the brethren in the church. Increase your circle of friends. If you are older, seek to become involved with some of the younger members. If you are younger, seek to acquaint yourself with those who are older. We are a family. Large families consist of young, middle-aged, and older people. Let us always be concerned for all the members--not for just a select few. Try it; you may like it!
When the church experiences problems--make sure you are part of the solution--not the problem! Are we concerned when there are problems in the local church? It's easy to see that someone else is a problem--but do we examine ourselves? All families have problems, and the church is no exception to the rule. The church's strength is seen in how it handles the situations that arise. We must constantly examine ourselves to make sure we are not hindering the search for a solution to a problem.
Love your brethren fervently! "Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart." (1 Peter 1:22) Love covers a multitude of sins. Our Lord told us that our love for one another would show the world our discipleship. (John 13:34-35) When true love exists in a local congregation, problems can never divide it; heartaches will never discourage it; and hardships will not be too tough to overcome. Love is the tie that binds our hearts together. God loved us so much He sent His Son; His Son loved us enough to die for us; and we should love others enough to help them attain heaven for eternity. Do you have this type of love for your brethren? Let us all commit ourselves to developing these types of attitudes.