This morning I read in Philippians 4 at the “Exhortation, Encouragement, and Prayer” passage in verses 2-9. As I read and dug into the passage I noticed that with one small exception, the whole of it was fully dedicated to the positive outlook. And, right in the middle is found the verse that brings it all home.
“4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4 (ESV)
I found it refreshing to not find the adversity, and then how to overcome it. I found the positive and joyful reflection that I should be referring to in my life at all times. I need to be rejoicing in all that comes my way and look for the opportunities to glorify God in them.
I mentioned that there was an exception to the full positive commentary in the passage. In verse 6 there is the quick reference to not being anxious, but then the immediate turn back to prayer and thanksgiving for all that abounds. So really not negative, only the reminder to take everything in stride and drive to the positive relationship with God.
It is our work that gives glory to God and in that work we should be in constant search for the positive and rejoice in that positive and carry it into our full outlook. I am not by nature a positive person. I look for the real in all of it and so this positive outlook is certainly something that I have to look for each day. I have to be searching for it and embracing the opportunities to glorify God at every turn in my life.
What about you and your outlook? Are you looking for the positive in everything and turning it all to the glory of God? What if you were, what would be the potential outcome for doing so?
Trevor's Thoughts 