Developing a Positive Perspective
“All the days of the afflicted are evil, but he that is of a merry heart has a continual feast.” Proverbs 15:15
“In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
We are meant to live with joy and thankfulness, remembering God’s sovereignty and trusting His wisdom. Are there areas of life you tend to complain about? Consider how you can change your perspective to be more thankful and aligned with eternal priorities.
Work
Although hard work is a result of the fall of Adam, it is still a blessing to live with purpose and productivity. Even when there is a heavy workload, we can rest in the confidence that God gives us enough time for everything He wants us to do. Are there things you do, that God may not be calling you to do? It may be you need to cut out some things, or simply organize your life, to live in line with His calling on your life. Then live in peace and thankfulness as you live for Jesus.
Chastening
God chastens us in love, to be “partakers of His holiness” (Hebrews 12:5–11). We are able to see His faithfulness even in correction, because He has not forsaken us, but rather He continues working in us and motivates us to grow. 1 Corinthians 11:32 is reassuring: “But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.”
Weather
Remember that God has all power, and He has power over the weather. Although it is fine to pray that it changes (Jesus said “be still” to the storm), we can always trust God’s will if He chooses not to change the weather. So, first pray rather than complaining- then trust His wisdom.
Others’ Choices
After Joseph was sold by his brothers and was later reunited with them, he said to them: “You meant it for evil, but God meant it unto good” (Genesis 50:20).
Romans 8:28–39 reassures us that God is working all things together for our good, He is conforming us to the image of His Son, we are more than conquerors through Him, and nothing can separate us from His love. And- “if God be for us, who can be against us?”
No one can get in the way of His plans for you!
Physical and Mental Limitations
God allows difficulty for higher purposes that are spiritual and eternal. When health problems are not a result of our own choices, we can trust that God has given the trials for higher purposes. He is always good, and always right.
“For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” — 2 Corinthians 12:8–9
“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!” — Romans 11:33
Possessions
Be thankful for everything you have, and keep your eyes on eternity; when you think of having more, think of how you can use your resources for eternal causes.
“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” — Hebrews 13:5
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” — 1 Timothy 6:6–8
”Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” — Philippians 4:11–12
