Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3: 2
If you have health issues where air quality is an important factor in your day-to-day life, you would have recently been watching their local Air Quality Index (AQI) for your part of the nation. Wildfires in Canada put the index dangerously high for much of the northeast section of the country. Those who have compromising health issues holed up in their homes with the air conditioners/air purifiers going day and night, even when the outside temperature had dropped below sixty-five. Masks were in order for any forays outside. The situation reminded me of during World War II and the newsreels of Londoners wearing gas masks.
[i]Children in London, GB during WWII
Photo I took of the strange sun when the AQI was over 200
Today’s children are being taught how to understand air quality by flags posted by their communities in public places such as schools, public buildings, sporting venues, and local businesses. Colored flags indicate the air quality. Apps for the computer or cell phone give an update in real time. As I write this, the AQI in my area is a nice “green” forty-four. We have little concern about breathing today.
According to the National Institute of Health, Air quality is affected, not only by wildfires and other natural sources such as volcanic eruptions, but also such human-made contributors that release nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and other particulate matter into the air. [iii]
All this is said to bring up a spiritual point. What is your Spiritual Attitude Quality Index (SAQI)? What is your spiritual attitude? In general, whether weather conditions, traffic, or other cautions, we think of the color red for a stop light; orange means a caution; yellow is a stop-and-think color, and green is all systems good. Can we claim a “green attitude?” When we claim the name of Christ, do we reflect His attitude? Do others see humility, gratitude, love, patience, and a focus on heavenly values? Our Spiritual AQI is a matter of development of a Christ-like spiritual character.
Developing a Green Attitude
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2: 5
Develop humility, selflessness, and obedience to God
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience … Colossians 3: 12
Develop virtues that reflect Christ-like love and promote positive relationships.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12: 2
Develop a mindset aligned to God’s will as we battle against worldly influences.
…Walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4: 1-3
Develop relational patience and humility.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4: 8 (NIV)[iv]
Develop a positive mindset focused on worthwhile matters.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
Develop a joyful, grateful attitude even when facing life’s trials.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5: 22-23
Develop a Spirit-led attitude in actions and interactions with others.
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10: 31
Develop a purposeful attitude aligning our daily life to God’s perfect will.
Kermit the Frog, sang, “It’s Not Easy Being Green.[v]” Indeed, having a green attitude is opposed to the worldly perspective we encounter in our day-to-day relationships. The default attitude of human nature is to feel and desire selfishly. How people go about to achieve their desires flies a red attitude🚩.
Challenge:
Memorize the above scripture verses, or if you have a problem memorizing, post in a prominent place or write them on file cards to read daily.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, work in my heart to make me more and more like Jesus. Amen
Promise:
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18
All scripture taken from English Standard Version unless otherwise indicated.
[i] https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.1cf2c02c602ce6041d0c48fc3f507e22?rik=IwuurAj8bNbnPA&riu=http%3a%2f%2fimages.fineartamerica.com%2fimages%2fartworkimages%2fmediumlarge%2f1%2fschool-children-wear-gas-masks-during-the-blitz-london-england-1940-david-lee-guss.jpg&ehk=r%2bT8ooIqiEee7G7DBvJcDYX%2fEaVrSaA3CM9%2f%2bFU7PrI%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw&r=0
[ii] https://www.airnow.gov/air-quality-flag-program-outreach-materials-publications
[iii] Air Pollution and Your Health | National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
[iv] New Internation Version (NIV)
[v] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bein%27_Green
[vi] https://wallpaperaccess.com/full/9632537.jpg (attitude added)
