Traveling across I-80 on the south side of Chicago this past summer elevated my concept of a traffic jam to new heights. I remained uncharacteristically upbeat and refrained from any outward expressions of impatience. I had recently been reminded that a Godly purpose should determine perspective and I was attempting to let it govern my reaction.
In Philippians chapter one Paul wrote from jail where his ministry was restricted while his antagonists were “preaching Christ…out of selfish ambition” (1:15) hoping to “…cause him distress in his imprisonment” (1:17). Even in these disheartening circumstances the apostle declared, “Only that in every way…Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice…” (1:18)
Paul didn’t despair that his ministry platform was confined to Roman soldiers, other prisoners, and visitors, but celebrated that, “my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel.” (1:12)
Believers in Christ may lament that our social media influence, church ministry, and personal witness feel less impactful compared to others who also proclaim the necessity of personally turning from sin and trusting in Christ’s death and resurrection to receive forgiveness and eternal life (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 5:8; 10:9-10).
Christ followers often forget that our perspective in every circumstance leads to actions that either draw people to or drive them away from Christ. Our reaction to ministry limitations and spiritual “competition”, traffic jams, a fussy baby, an irresponsible teenager, work pressure, or relational disappointment, can steal our joy, turn us into jerks, or point people to Jesus.
The secret to Paul’s spiritually superior perspective in the midst of adversity was the purpose for which he lived. “…that with all boldness, Christ shall even now, as always, be exalted in my body…” (Philippians 1:20). The positive attitude which governed Paul’s actions was determined by one overarching passion—to exalt Christ in every situation.
When exalting Christ is our constant goal then, like Paul, regardless of our circumstances we choose a response that brings Him glory.
When the ministry of other Christ followers is fruitful, we rejoice. When a store clerk makes a mistake, we show kindness. When our children mess up, we demonstrate patience. When our illness persists, we joyfully persevere.
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances…” (Viktor Fankl, Holocaust Survivor)
Our purpose of exalting Christ produces a positive perspective, resulting in practices that benefit others and glorify Him.