Developing a Positive Mental Attitude Through Faith

A positive mental attitude rooted in Christ transforms how we view life's challenges. The Bible calls us to see difficulties as opportunities for growth, trusting that God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Rom 8:28).

The Foundation of Biblical Positivity

The Bible exhorts us to see that 'the light and momentary' problems we experience are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (Rom 5:3-5; 2 Cor 4:17-18). Even discipline and pruning bring about desirable results – a better character and more fruit (Jn 15:2; Heb 12:11). This should cause us to "Be joyful always" knowing "When He has tried me, I will come forth as pure gold" (Job 23:10; 1 Thes 5:16; Heb 12:2; 1 Pet 1:6-7). Although we don't know what the future holds, we do know Who holds the future (1 Tim 1:12).

Is my conversation uplifting and positive?

It is good to affirm that "All things work together for the good of those who love God" (Rom 8:28). As we speak positive, encouraging words over ourselves and to others, these reflect our dependency on Christ. Love and praise focus attention on the good and desirable, give encouragement and instill confidence.

The thoughts we think and the statements we make determine our mental attitude for "As a person thinks in their hearts, so they are" (Prov 23:7). What we sow we will reap (2 Cor 9:6; Gal 6:7-8). We are responsible for our mental attitude – we are to carefully monitor the entry points as what we feed into our personality will be revealed (Mt 15:18-20). The Bible instructs us to "Guard your heart more than any treasure for it is the source of all that comes forth" (Prov 4:23). A positive person thinks about what is good (Phil 4:8); consequently the words that come out reflect what has been stored in the heart (Lk 6:45).

Guarding Your Mind in Practice

Being around those with an optimistic, energetic, positive outlook is uplifting, whereas being in the company of a complaining negative pessimistic person is draining. If you can't talk about something positive, it is best to keep quiet. An over-comer has a positive attitude while a negative mindset indicates a defeated person. A positive mind focuses on what is good and wholesome.

With Jesus I will come out of this a better person

Discipline your conscious mind to be positive, so in times of need it will automatically react positively. Our enthusiasm, confidence and self-esteem are enriched by a positive mindset, but decline when fearful and negative. We are to 'take captive' thoughts which are harmful and not beneficial (2 Cor 10:5).

A positive person handles dark periods properly – overlooking hurts, learning from failures and moving on. Their faith remains intact, believing He is still on the throne and they can't be separated from His love (Deut 31:6; Rom 8:31-32,37-39). Don't throw away your confidence, for He will deliver what He has promised (Rom 8:34; Heb 10:35-39). "Greater is He who is in us than he that is in the unbelievers" (1 Jn 4:4).

God remains in control and cares for my well-being

Counting your blessings will make you a happy, positive person while dwelling on problems will blight your spirit, besides causing some medical ailments.

Distinctions of True Faith

A positive mental attitude must be anchored in the sovereignty of God. Possibility thinking considers "we are well able" when our reasoning is in alignment on His plans, our faith is centered in Him (where our strength lies) and our eyes focused on Him, (not those who oppose the purposes of God) (Num 13:30). David had a similar faith attitude, when he declared "Let no-one lose heart, I will go and fight Goliath", then to this giant he said "I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty" (1 Sam 17:32,45). See the possibilities in others, focus on their good points and believe the best, even if they continue to disappoint. When we don't perform as we should, aren't you pleased God doesn't finish with us for He views us as 'work in progress' (Phil 1:6).

With Jesus, I am a victor

When you experience misfortune, view it as a temporary setback and opportunity for growth. View problems as a positive refining part of life, confident our sovereign God is still in control. When all went wrong, Job worshipped God (Job 1:20-22, 2:10). David encouraged himself in God rather than resorting to self-pity, and ultimately all came right (1 Sam 30:6,19). Rather than rehearsing your misfortunes, recall the Lord's blessings and praise Him – "I will bless the Lord at all times" (Ps 34:1).

It is erroneous to believe positive thinking has supernatural power to change future events by visualization or the law of attraction. The Word of Faith movement believes words can manipulate a 'faith-force' to create health and wealth independently of God's will. This is idolatry, turning our faith into God. Words are not magic. Speak out the Word of God, not your own desires, and in trusting faith ask God for help – recognizing His involvement depends on His purposes, plans and power.

A true Biblical approach accepts that while there is a link between a positive outlook and performance, this is vastly different to believing positive thoughts have inherent power to create an outcome. It is important we endeavour to understand what the will of God is and come into harmony with it, not trying to bring about what is not His intention by our own willpower (Mt 6:27; Eph 5:17). Only through the Spirit can anything of lasting value be accomplished (Zech 4:6).

I choose to think on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy

Optimism is a major factor in our wellness and achieving goals. Take responsibility for your mental state; setting attainable goals creates a 'success cycle'. Write out your goals in positive, specific, realistic terms. Daily reinforce the goal, taking steps to bring it into being – it is continual progress that brings the desired objective.

Positive people believe "With God all things are possible" and are prepared to tackle new challenges, so even if they fail they won't live with regret (Mt 19:26). A positive mindset has faith and is practical – it believes and acts on the Word of God, expects good things to happen, yet is realistic and if they do not eventuate will still be committed to God (Dan 3:17-18).

Reflection and Application:

What negative thought patterns do I need to take captive and replace with God's truth?
How can I encourage myself in the Lord when circumstances seem overwhelming?
Am I speaking life-giving words to myself and others, or words that drain and discourage?
What steps can I take today to guard my heart and feed my mind with what is good?