1. Spiritual Growth 4 Optimism (2)

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

3. 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

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!

5. 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.

6. 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

7. The Bible and Optimism Assurance Complete confidence and certainty Hebrews 6:11, 10:22 Hebrews 11:13 1 Thessalonians 1:5

8. The Bible and Optimism Faith Trusting God, believing God with assurance! Because of our faith, we are optimistic Hebrews 11:1 Hebrews 11:17-19, Abraham Matthew 7:20 James 1:6-8 Romans 8:31-39 1 John 5:4, our faith overcomes the world

9. 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

10. The Bible and Optimism Providence God working within the boundaries of natural law Philemon 15-16 Romans 8:28, according to His purpose

11. 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

12. 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 12:12-27 Romans 12:4-8

13. Maintaining a Proper Mindset Believe you can Healthy confidence (with humility) Philippians 4:13 Renew your mind – Rom. 12:1-2

14. 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!

15. 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 )

16. Maintaining a Proper Mindset Associate with the godly Our brethren ought to be building us up! Prefer them over the world Ephesians 4:16

17. Maintaining a Proper Mindset “Think on these things” Philippians 4:8 Live with confidence, hope, assurance, etc.

18. Maintaining a Proper Mindset Make the best of your situation Philippians 4:10-13 Remember, it is about your mindset!

19. Maintaining a Proper Mindset Keep reaching forward Colossians 3:1-2 Philippians 3:14 Don’t dwell on the past (but learn from it) Don’t quit! Keep your eye on the prize ( Matthew 6:21 )

20. What type of disposition do you have?