We are living in a season of exceptional political and ethical tension and conflict. For those of us Christ-followers, we may wonder not only how we should vote, but also how to live out, let alone share, our faith and convictions without severing our relationships.

In I Cor. 9:22, Paul, writes, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” One version puts it, “that I might win some.” I like to combine those two words to form the word “winsome.” Appealing, engaging, captivating.

In that same spirit, I want to suggest 5 life attitudes we can adopt that can be an effective, winsome witness to others. Each attitude will be a piece of a larger series on this topic. 

Each one also deserves time for thought and personal reflection. As you read each one, please consider the following brief prayer: 

“Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.”
– Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)

I will, too.

1. Be Grateful

Joseph Stalin once said, “Gratitude is a sickness suffered by dogs.” On the other hand, Christian author G. K. Chesterton said, “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.”

I’m lining up with Chesterton on this one.

Unfortunately, our culture militates against gratitude. From the time we turn on any form of media every day, we are assaulted with messages that subtly or blatantly stir up feelings of discontentment with our lives, our clothes, our cars, or our homes.

The truth is, we of all people on this planet can focus instead on what we do have. Much of the world lives in poverty by Western standards, knows what it means to wonder where the next meal will come from, and struggles to find sufficient employment.

We are uniquely blessed. Like David writing in the Psalms, we can say:“The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.” (Ps. 16:6)