Biblical Answer

As someone who has walked through the valley of despair and come out on the other side, I can tell you that staying positive is not always easy. In fact, it's a battle. But I've learned that it's a battle worth fighting. When I find myself stuck in a rut, I remind myself of the past victories God has given me. I reflect on the good things in my life, like my wonderful wife Susan and our two amazing kids, Joshua and Rebecca. I think about the blessings I've received, like my church family and the opportunity to serve as a pastor.

I also remind myself that positive thinking is not a magic solution to life's problems. It's not about ignoring the darkness or pretending it's not there. Rather, it's about acknowledging the reality of our struggles and choosing to focus on the good, even when it's hard. As the Bible says, "What is good and positive also defines what is not good and negative." So, I try to be honest with myself about what's going on inside, and I ask myself if I'm just going through the motions. Am I truly seeking God's guidance, or am I just trying to feel better? By being honest with myself and seeking God's truth, I can begin to change my perspective and find hope in the midst of darkness.

For me, staying positive is not just about feeling good; it's about living a life that brings glory to God. It's about recognizing that every good gift comes from Him and being thankful for those gifts. When I take the time to list all the good things in my life and express gratitude to God, I feel a sense of peace and confidence that I can face whatever comes my way. And when I'm struggling, I pray big prayers, asking God to help me know His love, to look more like Jesus, and to bring glory to Him in all that I do. By doing so, I find that I'm able to stay positive, even in the midst of challenges.