Cop An Attitude!

I was reading this morning in Romans chapter five where it says “It is certain that death ruled because of one person’s failure.  It is even more certain that those who receive God’s overflowing kindness (or grace) and the gift of his approval (or righteousness) will rule in life because of one person, Jesus Christ.”  (God’s Word © - parenthesis mine)  This verse gives us a good explanation of why we can live in consistent joy, no matter what is happening in our lives.  The apostle Paul makes it quite clear that Christians should be living differently than others in the world.  He says that we who have received God’s grace and righteousness should be rulers, not followers, winners and not losers in this life.  When you look up the original Greek definition of the word “rule” in this verse you will find that it means to “exercise kingly power,” or “to exercise the highest influence.”  (Thayer’s Greek Definitions)  And that word “life” isn’t just talking about a normal, mundane existence.  It is the “zoe” life of God.  It is living in the “absolute fullness of life.”  It is “the state of one who is possessed of vitality or is animate.”  (Thayer’s)

The Message Bible seems to capture the real sense of excitement that I believe Paul was trying to convey to us concerning this way of life that Jesus has afforded us to live.  It says “… can you imagine the breathtaking recovery life makes, sovereign life, in those who grasp with both hand this wildly extravagant life-gift, this grand setting-everything right, that the one man Jesus Christ provides?” (Romans 5:17)  Now if that doesn’t fill you with joy and put a permanent smile on your face and a hop in your step, then I don’t know what will!

I have to be honest and tell you that it is my solid belief in this verse and the countless others just like it that have helped to keep me afloat throughout these last few years with the attack on my wife’s health.  Do I have weak moments where I am tempted to throw in the towel?  Sure, everyone does at times, but I refuse to give into those lies that only lead to defeat and sorrow.  And even in those times I can be strong because God’s word also says that “my strength is made perfect in weakness!” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV)

So you see, we just can’t lose… as long as we “grasp with both hands this wildly extravagant life-gift” – and hold on tight!  I think that it is all about having an attitude!  An attitude that is firmly based on the “exceedingly, abundantly above all” that our heavenly Fathers not only desires for us but has also provided for us in this life. (See; Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)  So, cop an attitude, put on a confident smile and go out with a swagger in your step that demonstrates that joy that only He can provide!  Stay in tune to His Word and keep asking yourself… “What am I expecting today?”