Maintaining a positive outlook in life is not found in something so fickle as the weather. A positive outlook is the byproduct of Christian hope. Such hope is not rooted in this world, but is anchored in heaven (Heb. 6:19). It is a hope which “does not disappoint…” (Rm. 5:5). When life’s dreary circumstances threaten to dampen our enthusiasm, we must remember to set our “mind on things above, not on things that are on earth” (Col. 3:2).
A positive outlook begins in the heart. Paul reminds us of things needed for a positive disposition when he says, “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, 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 in maintaining a positive attitude. But, when we fill our hearts with lovely and noble thoughts, we can rise above life’s pleasantries and confidently say, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Ph. 4:13).
Wouldn’t you rather look at life with the optimism and hope Jesus provides through His teachings? Being a Christian is no guarantee that life will always treat you with kindness and respect. Quite to the contrary, good people often suffer precisely because they are trying to do the right thing. But, how we suffer adversity says a lot about our faith.
Instead of looking for the cloud in every silver lining, we need to find the best in every situation and rejoice that God has been so good. When it is all said and done, a Christian’s positive outlook may be just the thing that attracts a lost soul to the Savior. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before me in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).
–Glen Elliott–