Optimism is an essential ingredient for the growth and well-being of the body of Christ both individually and congregationally. Leroy Brownlow writes, “The world is not going to follow the man who has a gloomy outlook. We like the person who enjoys the donut rather than gripes at the hole in it.”
Optimism is a by-product of hope. The Christian’s hope is not rooted in this world, but anchored in the next (Heb. 6:19). It is a hope that “does not disappoint…” (Rm. 5:5). When life grows dark and dreary, threatening to dampen our enthusiasm, we must set our “mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:2). Easier said than done. An optimistic outlook requires a disciplined mind. Paul says, “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if here is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things” (Ph. 4:8).
Output is determined by input. So long as we fill our minds with polluted, negative thoughts, we will enjoy little success maintaining a positive attitude. By contrast, when Paul sought to fill his heart with things lovely and noble, he was able to rise above physical hardships and proclaim, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me (Ph. 4:13).
Wouldn’t you rather look at life through the hopeful optimism of faith in Christ? We will not always be treated fairly in life. Hardships will come even into the lives of Christians. But, in Christ, we have the resources to deal with life at its worst and still maintain our hope in the future. Remember, “This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps. 118:24).
— Glen Elliott —