I’ve thought about the “positive/negative thoughts” thing several different times over the years. I don’t think the answer is denying there are bad things, as some Christians do. When something really difficult comes along, I’ve seen people who hold to this viewpoint completely lose their faith. I even know of a pastor whose wife died of cancer, and the church blamed the pastor for her death because he wasn’t thinking enough positive thoughts. Woah!

What I’ve come to believe is that our positive thoughts aren’t based on denying bad things, but are based on the power and faithfulness of God in our lives. I think these words of Paul illustrate it well.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. (2 Corinthians 4:7-10)

Thanks for a thought-provoking post.

Anyways, excellent job combining those scriptures! They really put that topic in perspective. It’s also funny how science proves the Bible 100% correct. Too many people try to use science against the Bible (i.e. evolution). Recently, with the Memorization Marathon that we have been doing, I’ve been noticing a difference in my thinking! So, I think that the root of all spiritual problems is a lack of meditation and spending time with God, don’t you?

God bless,
Jay

“His own arm brought salvation for Him, and His own righteousness, it sustained Him! … He was clad with zeal as a cloak. Arise, sine; for your light has come!” Isaiah 59:16-60:1

The WFW posts are all kind of intermingled lately– His joy and His righteousness and His goodness are our strength– strength for living, strength for health and healing, strength to withstand the evil day. It’s just amazing!!

Great post!