Philippians 2:5: “Have this attitude (mind) in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” 

Leaders must recognize that “Team Spirit Starts at the Top.” This applies to both family and work. With the Word of God and the Holy Spirit living in us, we must recognize that we control the thermostat for the climate and atmosphere in each setting. A thermometer measures the temperature of the climate and atmosphere, but the thermostat controls it. Over the last few years, I have had to replace the HVAC systems in my house. Each time, I have also replaced the thermostat with a new one that better sets the overall climate and environment. We must remember that a thermostat is connected to an electrical source and then to the output of the HVAC unit. When the climate, temperature, and atmosphere become too hot or too cold, I have to change the thermostat settings.

How does this apply to you and your leadership responsibility? You are the one at the control and must set the thermostat and subsequently the climate by having the attitude of Christ Jesus. It must be a climate of love, respect, unselfishness, and open communication that is adjusted by God through you. I went for a jog this morning in the heat, humidity, and mosquitoes which was not an enjoyable environment. When I opened the door to come back into the house, the atmosphere was so refreshing, cool, positive, and welcoming. The electrical source to the thermostat and the connection to the HVAC unit were all working together. That is what a leader must control to set the spiritual and loving environment in his home or work. Are you setting the thermostat and spirit for the climate in your home to be peaceful, cooperative and spiritually sound? The bottom line is that “Team Spirit Does Start at the Top with Jesus” and you control the thermostat. How are you doing?