True Positive: Day 21 – Encourage Others

July 27, 2017July 27, 2017Leave a comment

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Are you an encourager or a discourager? The word “encourage” means to give strength to another person. The root word, “cor” is the Latin word for heart. When we use our words or actions to sincerely encourage others, we offer strength for their heart. Let’s be honest, this world is full of sadness and hurt, and most people are hungry for an uplifting word or a kind acknowledgement.

James M. Barrie, the creator of Peter Pan wrote, “Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves.” It’s true! When we take the time to honestly and specifically build up another person, we ourselves are strengthened and uplifted. Yet, if we use our mouths to grumble and criticize, our personal joy is diminished. Let’s be builders, not destroyers!

Solomon said, “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” How will you use your words today to make a positive difference in the life of another person?

True Positive: Day 20 – Big Picture

July 26, 2017July 26, 2017Leave a comment

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There are times when life circumstances seem immense and overwhelming. Whether it is a deadline, or a sudden life change or simply a difficult person, challenges can loom large in our minds. In these moments, it is important for us to step back and gain a broader perspective. Consider asking yourself the question, “In light of eternity, how does this effect my life and the lives of those around me?”

If you ever sat too close to the screen in a movie theater, you know what I’m talking about. Sometimes we must look at the whole picture instead of what is right in front of our eyes, distorting our perspective. When challenges come our way, they may look like mountains for a moment, but step back and gain perspective and recognize that your circumstances are only part of a bigger life story.

Father, teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12). Help us keep our eyes on your love and presence in our lives no matter what the circumstances.

True Positive: Day 19 – Refreshing People

July 25, 2017July 25, 2017Leave a comment

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There are certain people in our lives that refresh our spirit. They not only inspire and encourage us, but they also empathize with us and pray for us. Who are the positive people in your life? Consider the people in your life right now that bring enjoyment and delight into your life – those friends who are sunshine to your soul.

In our social media driven culture, we can fool ourselves into thinking that we are surrounded by friends. But do these friendships satisfy our heartfelt need for true connection in relationships? We were created as relational beings, and we need real time with real friends. Be intentional today about connecting with people who are a blessing to your life, and in turn, be sure you are being an inspiration and refreshment to others.

True Positive: Day 18 – Patience

July 24, 2017July 24, 2017Leave a comment

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“Patience” may not be your favorite topic of conversation, but there is a unique beauty in learning to wait. Impatience only stirs up anger and frustration, but if we can develop the positive quality of waiting, we experience peace and joy. Being patient with others brings them blessing. The Bible reminds us that God is patient and slow to anger with us.

What is the first attribute of love listed in 1 Corinthian 13? Patience! When we love people, we bear with them and recognize that God is still at work in their lives. While we are waiting on circumstances or on people, it is a good idea to pray and look for something productive you can do. I always keep a book in the car with me, so that I can occupy myself while waiting. Whether waiting for the right job or the right spouse, we can always find something productive to do while waiting.

Don’t be afraid to ask the Lord to give you patience. It’s a positive and beautiful quality

True Positive: Day 17 – Forgiveness

July 23, 2017July 23, 2017Leave a comment

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Dr. Randy Kamen, psychologist and author of Behind the Therapy Door, says, “Forgiveness transforms anger and hurt into healing and peace. Forgiveness can help you overcome feelings of depression, anxiety, and rage, as well as personal and relational conflicts. It is about making the conscious decision to let go of a grudge.” Additionally, Harvard researcher and physician Dr. George Vaillant describes forgiveness as one of the 8 positive emotions that keep us connected with our deepest selves and with others.

Jesus gave His followers the clear message of forgiveness. As we extend forgiveness toward others, we demonstrate that we understand the forgiveness God has toward us through Christ. Forgiveness doesn’t mean we allow someone to trample over us again and again. We must learn to set wise boundaries. Forgiveness means we are releasing the right to hold something over another person and handing it over to a just and loving God.

Psalm 36 is one of my favorite passages:

Your unfailing love, O Lord, is as vast as the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the ocean depths.

It reminds me not only of God’s unfailing love, but also His great justice. When we turn our hurts and pain over to Him, we can trust that He will take care of it. Think of the ocean depths – there is a lot of life happening in the depths of the great deep. There is joy, peace and freedom when we release our grudges and allow God to deal with it. He sees, He knows, He is at work.