In college I had a pastor who was very influential in my life. There are several specific conversations I remember and a few phrases of his that have really stuck with me. One of those popped into my head today: “Ben, sometimes action precedes attitude.”
I don’t remember exactly what prompted that little aphorism from him. But its truth has been borne out for me a lot over the years.
If I always waited for inspiration, motivation, inclination or desire before taking on a challenge, having a conversation, writing an email, going to a meeting…I would miss out on a lot of growth or satisfaction or joy.
But, if you’re not using attitude as the indicator for when to do something, you’re going to need some other way of determining what you do. For me, the best indicator knowing God that invites me to see the world a certain way, and to see myself as a certain sort of actor in that world. This opens up potential, also particular obligations or callings as well as particular sorts of help. I can sacrificially love those around me, I can pursue creative solutions to complex problems, and address things that are wrong in the world. Though the short term actions those viewpoints prompt may be hard or uncomfortable…the attitude of joy or fulfillment can come after the action.
This past Sunday we talked about the life of faith being one of adventure. This doesn’t happen immediately, life becomes adventure as we start doing the stuff God lays out for us. Go for it!