I.   What is an Attitude?  Attitudes are patterns of thinking formed over a long period of time.

• Wrong attitudes are hard to change because they are habitual, harmful ways of thinking about life and circumstances.
• Patterns of thinking are so deeply ingrained in our hearts and minds that we hardly even notice them.
• There is a direct correlation between our behavior and our thought life. [See Romans 12:1-2]

II.  A Critical Attitude vs. An Attitude of Love
 
1.  Critical Attitude (Numbers 12)
 
A.  Definition of Criticism: 

• First, let’s remember the difference between complaining and criticism.  Complaining relates to situations, whereas Criticism relates to people.

 

• Criticism is dwelling upon the perceived faults of another person with no view to their good.

B.  Principles Regarding Criticism
>Principle One: Criticism is Wrong (Numbers 12:11)>Principle Two: Criticism is Petty
Three significant issues hide under the cover of criticism…
o  Unforgiveness and the bitterness that goes with it.
o  Envy, jealousy, or resentment.
o  Personal failure.

>Principle Three: Criticism is Self-Exalting

>Principle Four:  Criticism is Painful

 >Principle Five:  Criticism is Often Inadvertent

>Principle Six:  Criticism Blocks the Flow of God’s Blessing

2.  An Attitude of Love (Romans 12:9-10/ 1 Corinthians 13)

• Love is Authentic  
• Love is Discerning
• Love is Loyal
• Love is Unselfish