Positive Thinking

I believe that our misery or happiness has more to do with the attitude of our mind, than with our circumstance. Don't misunderstand me, there is pain and sadness in this world. We will grieve, but we do not have to live there.

We miss out on so many good things, because we are too busy grumbling about the bad. We stay in the pit of despair, when we have been offered infinite joy. I am not talking about pulling yourself up by the boot straps and pasting on a fake smile. I am talking about a change of mind.

Romans 12:2 says that we are to renew our minds. We are to think on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). We are to rejoice always, giving thanks in all circumstances. That all sounds great, but is it feasible? Yes! Everything is possible for him who believes.

What I am writing of is not some new age positive thinking, but it is positive thinking based on the One who works all things for our good. Philippians tells us in chapter four verses four through nine, that if we will change our thinking and bring everything to God, we will have peace. And peace allows us to find joy no matter the circumstances.

I firmly believe this is possible, not just because it is written in God's Word, though that is enough, but because I have experienced it in my life. The circumstances in my life that pulled me into the pit of sadness and grief, have not changed, but I have found joy. It was not an overnight success, but it came one day at a time as I chose to believe in the hope I have in Christ. I began renewing my mind and trusting in the character of God, until one day I realized I was full of joy and could honestly praise God for the blessings in my life, both"good and bad". I rejoice and am thankful for the life I have.

It is possible for anyone. As the Israelites were trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptians, they grumbled to Moses and pitied themselves. But Moses replied to them, "Do not be afraid, Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still (silent)." (Exodus 14:14) Begin today. Choose to think positively based on the unfailing love of God.