The Bible clearly teaches that we will be judged by the life that we live.  We all will have to answer for our actions.  Paul made this abundantly clear.

2 Corinthians 5:10 (ESV)
¹⁰  For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.

It becomes obvious from this passage that how we live matters.  Our works play a part in our final destination, whether that be heaven or hell.  No wonder Paul said, “…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).

Our works are not the only factor that plays a part in our eternal destiny…our attitudes will be judged as well.  Some will lose their souls because of their sinful dispositions.  Too many Christians do not realize that their attitude can condemn them, but the truth is, God has always cared about our hearts.  People can even be condemned by their disposition when it leads them to take proper action.

Philippians 1:15-17 (ESV)
¹⁵  Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. ¹⁶  The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. ¹⁷  The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.

Do you think those who preached Christ from envy and rivalry, and with selfish ambition, escaped condemnation?  No, they did not, unless, of course, they repented.  Our dispositions matter as much as our actions.  Some attitudes are devilish in nature.

James 3:14-16 (ESV)
¹⁴  But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. ¹⁵  This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ¹⁶  For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.

These verses give us some insight as to why God cares so much about our disposition.  How we think has a direct connection to how we act.  James tells us that jealousy and ambition lead to vile practices.  While James knew this truth by inspiration, he may have heard Jesus teach the same thing.

Matthew 15:19-20 (ESV)
¹⁹  For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. ²⁰  These are what defile a person…”

So, make sure you are living right, but first, make sure you are thinking right, and that your overall attitude is pleasing to God.  Avoid being bitter, selfish, or covetous.  Fill your mind with joy, love, and thankfulness, and don’t allow a sinful disposition to keep you from going to heaven.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.