"Walking with Optimism!"

Just about every day, my wife and I take a walk. We talk and share about all that is going on in our lives. Recently I realized that my walking companion is so optimistic, even in the middle of what I think are justified complaints. I was also brought face to face in my devotion to a passage that I am familiar with, but I never let the words literally sink in.... Colossians 3:15-17 says:

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

If you listen to people, being thankful is not a very common attitude. They complain about their classes, their jobs, their practice schedules, their parents, their friends, the weather... on and on. In the world it is easy to complain because everybody does it. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are called to be thankful... no matter the circumstances. That is often not an easy task, especially when you think you have something to complain about... but you know, that is just the time when God wants us to be thankful, all the more. When things are going great, it is easy to be thankful... but when tough times come, being thankful requires help.. sometimes a reminder from a friend who cares. But really, it occurs to me that if we are truly trusting Christ and the presence of His Spirit in our life, Jesus is walking with us all day long!! What could be a better reminder that we have so much to be optimistic about.

For the "peace of God to rule in your hearts" means that there is no other way that we should feel... at peace..., no matter what decision is ahead for us, or challenge, an injustice or some other 'worthy' complaint.

Thank you God for walking with me. That realization is truly helping me to be more optimistic.

Today, you are entering a world of complainers. It is your opportunity to stand out, to be different. The Lord wants you to have a n attitude of thankfulness. The only way you can do that is to get into His Word and allow it to get into you. Take a walk with Optimism!