Paul was an optimist When it comes to pessimism versus optimism, the Bible doesn’t leave us many options. If we believe in God we can’t help but be optimistic – because, regardless of what may happen today, we know ultimately everything will work for our good and God’s glory. Even as he sat in a Roman jail, he could see the benefits of his imprisonment. He had no promised release date to look forward to, the prison conditions were less than ideal, yet he remained positive about the future. Read his words in Philippians 1 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. These aren’t the words of a doomed man. Paul expected the best for tomorrow because he believed in a God who is good, who is powerful, who is merciful, and who is love. Pessimism might come quite naturally to you, but the excuse, “It’s just my nature” doesn’t work anymore than we can excuse away lust, laziness, or greed. The bottom line is that pessimism is a sin. It reveals a lack of faith; anything from faith is sin. Optimism is a choice. I don’t believe it comes naturally to anyone. Those who maintain a perpetually positive outlook on life have learned to make that choice. If Paul could be optimistic under Roman arrest, then we shouldn’t let obstacles or an economic crisis ruin our day. We can make the same choice he made; we can choose to expect the best for tomorrow, in spite of what is happening today, because we know God is good. |