In A Word: OPTIMISM

Webster’s Dictionary gives us the following definition. “1 - the belief that good ultimately prevails over evil. 2 - the tendency to take the most hopeful or cheerful view of things.”

Looking at the various things that have been taking place in the world, our nation, our state and in the community, it would not give us vary many good choices to make that would make us very optimistic. Yet the optimist should be able to see through tragedy to the blessing that lies beyond. 

Have you ever considered the reason why some people act differently to the same problems and difficulties.  Alan McGinnis says the following: “Optimists are not necessarily born with cheerful dispositions, nor do they lead charmed lives. Far from it, in fact. Many of them grew up in negative environments, and most of them suffered from crushing setbacks. But along the way, they discovered techniques for defeating depression and keeping their enthusiasm high.”

Just look at some of the situations and challenges of our times: some people hate the president others love him, some belong to one political party and hate those in the other, all of us have some degree of fear regarding Covid 19.  Some want the schools to open others to close them and have on line schooling, some want socialism and others capitalism, and so the list can go on and on.  Our country seems so divided and it becomes so difficult to be optimistic about anything. 

So many today to would believe the word PESSIMISM is the operative word of the day.  All seems so hopeless and depressing we have no clue of an optimistic end game. 

Yet there is hope.  Here are a number of items to consider:

1. Pray and ask God for guidance and wisdom from His Word. Worship, prayer and Bible study are key to setting us on a positive track as people of God.  The Bible says that “All things work together for good to them that love God.” This becomes a test and opportunity to put this into  practice in our lives.
2. Do those things that would make you a problem solver and part of the positive solutions rather than making things worse.  Ask yourself questions like: What can I do to make things better?  How can I improve things in the home, church, city, or community? 
3. Our world is imperfect so focus on things that you can do to prevent problems by anticipating problems. For example: On line school may happen in the public schools: What alternative do I have for the education of my child?
4. Encourage situations where we may talk freely about situations that differ from ours.  This atmosphere is not prevalent in our society today.  We tend to shout down any idea that differs from ours.
5. In a negative situation explore the chance that there may be something good out of this negative situation. If there is not anything good, in a kind way, guide the situation into a positive solution.
6. Pray for wisdom for yourself and others.

If you are looking for answers to life’s tough questions, contact us and set up a time when we may meet or talk. SJN Church 216-531-1156, or wmarcis@stjohnnottingham.org

Published in the SJN Newsletter by Pastor Walther Marcis