Spiritual Growth 4

Optimism (2)

What is Optimism?• Optimism, “a disposition or

tendency to look on the more favorable side of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome.”

Optimism, Dictionary.com unabridged

What is Optimism?• NOT blind optimism• We cannot ignore sin and

weaknesses in our lives• The positive preaching

movement/ health & wealth gospel teach a false optimism

• Beware of the slick spiritual salesmen 2 Tim. 4:2-4

What is Optimism?• NOT blind optimism• But at the same time, we need to

believe we can change for the better- We can overcome obstacles, weaknesses and sin- We can resist Satan- We can do what we are called to do

•This mindset is necessary!

What is Optimism?• While the Bible does not use

the word “optimism”, the idea of looking toward the more favorable side of events and expecting a favorable outcome is taught in scripture.

•Matt. 7:7-8, Phil. 4:8, 1 Cor. 13:7, 10:13, Phil. 4:13, etc.Joshua and Caleb, David vs. Goliath, etc.

The Bible and Optimism• Confidence• To have certainty in a matter.

Often resulting in boldness•Acts 28:30-31•Romans 15:14, Heb. 6:9•2 Corinthians 5:6-8•Ephesians 3:12•1 John 3:21

The Bible and Optimism• Assurance

• Complete confidence and certainty

•Hebrews 6:11, 10:22•Hebrews 11:13•1 Thessalonians 1:5

The Bible and Optimism• Faith • Trusting God, believing God with

assurance! Because of our faith, we are optimistic

•Hebrews 11:1Hebrews 11:17-19, Abraham

•Matthew 7:20• James 1:6-8•Romans 8:31-39•1 John 5:4, our faith overcomes the

world

The Bible and Optimism• Hope• To look forward to something

with confidence, expectation for a good outcome

•Hebrews 11:1•Hebrews 6:11•Romans 5:3-5•1 John 3:3

The Bible and Optimism• Providence

• God working within the boundaries of natural law

•Philemon 15-16

•Romans 8:28, according to His purpose

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Make up your mind!

The way you think about your circumstances is a choice!

• Count your blessings - forgiveness, prayer, His word, God’s family, etc.2 Cor. 13:5

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Accept who you are!

• It can affect the way we think!We are each made in God’s image. We have talents! We have limitations. Accept that and use it! 1 Corinthians 12:12-27Romans 12:4-8

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Believe you can

• Healthy confidence (with humility)Philippians 4:13Renew your mind – Rom. 12:1-2

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Avoid negative

situations• Choose what you do and where

you go! • Don’t be overly critical (forgive

yourself)• Don’t let world events affect your

confidence in God (1 John 4:4, John 15:19)Overcome sin!

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Do what you can do

• You need to be busy!• Learn self-control• Complement, don’t criticize• Be humble• Help others• Make your environment a better

place (cf. Acts 23:1)

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Associate with the

godly

• Our brethren ought to be building us up! Prefer them over the worldEphesians 4:16

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• “Think on these

things”•Philippians 4:8

Live with confidence, hope, assurance, etc.

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Make the best of

your situation•Philippians 4:10-13

Remember, it is about your mindset!

Maintaining a Proper Mindset• Keep reaching

forward•Colossians 3:1-2Philippians 3:14Don’t dwell on the past (but learn from it)Don’t quit!Keep your eye on the prize (Matthew 6:21)

What type of disposition do you

have?