There is much said today about improving our health
by developing habits of optimism, whether facing a
difficult medical diagnosis or a pile of dirty laundry.
Barbara Fredrickson, PhD, a psychology professor
at the University of North Carolina, says
we should try activities that build joy, gratitude, love, and other positive feelings.
We know, however, that more is required
than a general wish for good feelings.
We need a strong conviction that there is a source
of joy, peace, and love upon which we can depend.
Psalm 37:1-8 gives positive actions we can take
as an antidote to pessimism and discouragement.
Consider these mood boosters:
Trust in the Lord, do good, dwell in the land,
feed on His faithfulness (v.3);
delight in the Lord (v.4);
commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him (v.5);
rest in the Lord, wait patiently for Him, do not fret (v.7); cease from anger, forsake wrath (v.8).
Because they are connected to the phrase
“in the Lord,”those directives are more than
wishful thinking or unrealistic suggestions.
It’s because of Jesus, and in His strength,
that they become possible.
Our one true source for optimism
is the redemption that is in Jesus.
He is our reason for hope! -David McCasland |