Optimism - The Glass Half Full

Optimism – The Glass Half Full

The pastor this morning said, “I believe the Bible but I am a pessimist, How is that possible?” Then he went on and quoted William Ralph Inge “No Christian can be a pessimist, for Christianity is a system of radical optimism.” Which got me thinking! Why do I sometimes get negative and even get a touch of pessimism in my life. Beth and I have seen much pessimism and “cannot not do attitudes” even on the mission filed and in the hearts of those closely serving God. Why does pessimism attack the hearts of so many in the world of business and politics. Why in our homes today are so many children scared with so much inferiority struggling with lack or loss. Why do people commit suicide? Why do people give up?

Could it be we are living as pessimist in the world and forgetting the Ultimate Promise of God.

Romans 8: 28 says ‘And we know that God causes ALL things to work together for good” and for most that is where we stop. What a promise! In other words, good or bad things God transfers from negative will be viewed through optimistic lens! But it is conditional for those who love God to those who are called according to His purpose.”(another great added advantage for the Christian and blessing only offered to those who believe Jesus.)

Believe what?

“…Ye must be born again.” John 3:7

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection, and the life : he that Believeth ( trusted ) in me, though he were dead yet shall he live: and whoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” John 11:25-26

“For God so loved the world ( You and I) that he gave His only begotten Son (Jesus) that whoever believeth in Him ( put your trust in Him and make Him the BOSS of your life) should not perish, ( go to a place of torment and be separated from God anything Godly for Eternity) BUT have ever lasting life. ( with Jesus and God in heaven FOREVER, a very long time. John 3:16:

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men. Whereby we can be saved.” Acts 4:12

But once we believe what next?

“Christian selfhood is not defined in terms of who we are in and of ourselves. It’s defined in terms of what God does to us and the relationship he creates with us and the destiny he appoints for us. God made us who we are so we could make known who he is. Our identity is for the sake of making known his identity.” Desiring God John Piper

It is important we remember the hope and meaning that comes from the love of God for us. Our identity in Christ is so special and should give meaning to every event in our lives. Every issue, decision or challenge -good or bad will be seen through the bright lens of optimism. All things are for our benefit and for the glory of God himself. We will instead see everything as the best for us. We will stop bathing in the depths of dissatisfaction and despair. So, chin up and look up and wonder at his marvelous ways. Serve in optimism as you serve Him in business, ministry or politics. This is not a passive reaction or gift it takes an active decision to accept and act on the truth of this, His promise.

“Christ is our life — not only the guarantee of it in heaven, but the downpayment of it by the Spirit now, as he lives in us. His joy becomes our joy; his love, our love; his peace, our peace; his strength, our strength.” Desiring God John Piper