Having a Great AttitudeSample

Lose Your Life

In pursuing a positive attitude, many would argue that success, winning, and achieving greatness are the keys to cultivating such an outlook. However, the Bible presents a counter-intuitive approach: to gain a great attitude, one must lose—specifically, lose their life by dying to self. Jesus said in Matthew 16:25, "Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." This challenges us to follow Christ's example of humility and self-sacrifice, where true fulfillment and joy are found not in winning, but in surrendering our lives to God's will.

Jesus, who existed in the form of God, emptied Himself and took on the form of a servant, becoming obedient to death on a cross. This ultimate act of losing His life resulted in His exaltation by God and the salvation of all who believe. We are called to follow in His footsteps by putting to death our sinful nature and embracing a life of humility and service. When we surrender our desires, pride, and self-centeredness, we find true freedom and a positive attitude that radiates from within. This spiritual freedom allows us to live a life that is not controlled by sin, but is marked by the joy and peace that come from walking in God's will.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the profound truth that to find true life, we must first lose it in surrender to You. Help us embrace the counter-intuitive wisdom of Jesus’ call to die to ourselves and live for Him. Grant us the strength to put to death our sinful nature and to follow Christ’s example of humility and self-sacrifice. As we surrender our lives to You, fill us with Your peace and joy that surpasses all understanding. May our attitude reflect the freedom and grace You provide, and may we be a light to others through the transformative power of Your Spirit. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Question: How can embracing the principle of losing our life for Christ transform our approach to daily challenges and interactions with others?