Purposeful Positivity

Life is a roller coaster: full of up’s and downs, screams and laughter. Moments last for what seem like forever but disappear in a flash. One moment you are going up full of enthusiasm and excitement, and next your whole life is literally turned upside down leaving you feeling helpless, trapped and fearful. These individual moments full of sorrow, joy, jealousy, purpose, disappointment, encouragement, anger, insecurity, fear, insert any emotion here ____________ are the stitches that hold together the quilt of life. We were created to “feel” and experience many different emotions as we travel down the long path to our ultimate destination. For this reason, I believe that EVERYTHING happens for a reason and that God is working in all situations. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28

Emotions are like human antennas, guiding our decisions and hopefully leading us to full reliance on Him.  Everyone has seasons of darkness, but staying in a state of constant depression or negativity does not allow the light of Christ’s love to truly shine through.

            We all know those people who seem to have a negative and pessimistic attitude about everything and always put on a damper on the mood. These people are the excessive complainers, gossipers, and naysayers and tend to latch on like leeches until all the life is sucked out. They draw you under their cloud because misery loves company, but overtime, drain you of all energy and joy-contagiously spreading their disease.  Even the most naturally positive people fall prey into the trap of negativity.

            God has blessed me with a positive outlook on life. I am a self-proclaimed optimist who normally views the glass half full. I thank God for my ability to find beauty in the little things and see potential for “goodness” in all people. People have labeled me as “naïve” and “too happy” wondering why some things don’t seem to affect me but that’s just how I am.  Though I have learned to greatly appreciate my God-given gift of positivity, I have also learned a few lessons throughout the way. First, as with any gift, I’ve had to learn where my inner joy comes from. It’s not from my own will, or attributes, but from the Holy Spirit that resides inside my soul.  Also. Satan so desperately wants my spirit and constantly is trying to quench my joy by throwing anxiety, busyness, hatred, politics, etc. into my thoughts. These are all stumbling blocks that cause me to not see God’s world as it was created: beautiful.

            As I struggle to see the light in a world full of darkness, I have learned that I have to be intentional about making positivity a priority. First, God has to be the center of everything because he IS the light guiding us through the darkness. Second, slow down and enjoy the little moments of everyday.  Third, make it a habit to look for the good in even the worst situations. Remember that that everyone is broken and has a story, even if that story differs drastically from your own. Fourth, seek God’s guidance in looking for people that encourage and lift your spirits, and give you positive energy instead of draining it from you. Lastly, Pray! Pray for your attitude, pray for others, and pray about life. Lift your complaints up to the Father and also make a point to praise Him for all the blessings he has bestowed. I will strive everyday to live a purposely-positive life, and I hope that you will as well.

May the Lord bless you and keep you,

K.L.E