To be the best version of yourself, you must have the best attitude possible.  When it comes to the kind of lives that we live, our attitude is critical.  The saying “attitude determines altitude” is very true, not only in the secular realm, but also in the religious realm.  In fact, it is even a biblical concept.  The wise man once said about man, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he…” (Proverbs 23:7).

To be the best you, you must have a humble attitude.  Arrogance corrupts the mind, causing us to deceive ourselves into thinking we are better than we are.

Galatians 6:3 (NKJV)
³For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

This self-exaltation leads to the mistreatment of others, speaking unkindly, and just an overall ugly disposition.  The humble person, on the other hand, is usually kind, compassionate, and easy to get along with because they treat people fairly and with respect.  This is the mind of Christ that Paul exhorts us to have (Philippians 2:3-9).

A humble attitude is possessed by those who are poor in spirit.  Remember, Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).  To be poor in spirit ultimately points to how we view and think of ourselves.  It is to understand our true spiritual condition apart from Christ.  To be poor in spirit is to see that, were it not for the blood of Christ, we would be hopelessly lost.  This is the kind of person that pleases God.

Isaiah 66:2 (ESV)
“…But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.”

To be the best version of ourselves, we must simply have a good overall attitude.  People with bad attitudes are those who always have to have their way, making everyone around them miserable if they do not.  Good attitudes are possessed by those who are thick-skinned.  They are not easily offended.  They do not fly off into a fit of rage when someone disagrees with them.  They, instead, are very cooperative, willing to adapt and get along with others with whom they do not see eye-to-eye on a given subject.   Having a good attitude is healthy for body, mind, and soul.

Proverbs 15:13 (ESV)
¹³ A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. 

Proverbs 17:22 (ESV)
²² A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

When do we need to have a good attitude?  We need a good attitude when life throws unexpected challenges at us.  We need a good attitude whenever we are interacting with others, friends or foes alike.  We need a good attitude when we are dealing with brethren and matters of the church.  We need to live with a good attitude every day.  Only then can we be the best version of ourselves.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.