Everything working together for good -- Full message

 

The events of our lives have a purpose

Joyful living and the assurance we have

God Stuff podcast - Happy New Year episode - Be as prepared as possible

                                 Click here for podcast!

The Optimism of A Worst-Case-Scenario Thinker

I knew a guy who would always assume the worst case scenario was likely to happen when it came to the events of his life. This frustrated me because I thought he was too pessimistic. It seemed like he always had an attitude that threw a wet blanket on things.

But then I came to realize this fellow’s pessimistic worst-case-scenario approach to life was actually a coping mechanism he employed to keep from having his hopes dashed. Think about it: Most of the time something which is not as bad as the worst case scenario will occur. For those expecting the worst this will, therefore, wind up being better than they expected.

This approach would mean he would not have to deal with the kind of disappointment that might have occurred if his hopes were very high. So oddly enough, this worst-case-scenario type of thinking was my friend’s guarded attempt at being optimistic since his thinking typically resulted in outcomes which exceeded his expectations!

…But, to be honest, I still think he was too pessimistic.

Here’s a bit of biblical optimism for those who are trusting in Him: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

Peace and Comfort In Spite Difficulties

It seems I am reminded every day that life can be difficult, painful and discouraging.  But then I am also encouraged and inspired as I see people put their faith and trust in God and find peace, comfort, wisdom and strength in spite of the difficult circumstances. Remember: God loves you and He has not abandoned you! “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

The Future Is Looking Good

Christianity is, ultimately, an incredibly optimistic faith.  For followers of Christ there are many passages of scripture that lead us to an expectation that—at least, in the long run—the outcome will be very good. For example: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Rom.8:28

E-Flash From Dan, April 24, 2010

Dear E-Flash Friends;

Did you ever read something that surprised you, in a good way?  That’s what happened to me when I read the following quote that I’m going to share with you.  It’s so common that the general state things are described as dismal, and our current situation is suggested to be much worse than ever before.  Is that true?  Are things really that bad?  Here’s what I read…

“It is a fact of life that people love to complain, particularly about how terrible the modern world is compared with the past.

They are nearly always wrong.  On just about any dimension you can think of—warfare, crime, income, education, transportation, worker safety, health—the twenty-first century is far more hospitable to the average human than any earlier time.”

Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner

As an example, Levitt and Dubner go on to cite data regarding childbirth.  One hundred years ago, the rate of maternal death during childbirth was more than 50 TIMES HIGHER than it is today in industrialized nations.  Things are much better in this area, these days.

To be honest, I don’t really know for sure if everything is much better now than it used to be.  Although, I suspect that in many of the ways Levitt and Dubner mention, the statistics would be hard to argue with.  But the main reason I shared that quote was because I figured we could all use a little encouraging news once in a while, rather than negative news.

One of the things that I love about the Christian faith is that it is, ultimately, HOPEFUL and OPTIMISTIC.  I’m wired up in such a way that I need some good news on a regular basis.  I have a hard time taking a steady stream of negative information.  (That’s why I weigh myself infrequently.)  As followers of Jesus Christ, we have great reason for joy and hope. 

How does the future look?  Well, if you’re a follower of Jesus it looks great!

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  Romans 8:28

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” 2 Corinth. 4:17

“Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever.” Psalm 125:1

How about one more?  Sure, why not…

“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Jeremiah 29:11

I know there are difficulties and troubles in life.  I’m not recommending a head-in-the-sand approach to reality, that would not be honest (and it ruins your hairdo).  But, hey!  We know how things work out in the end.  Right?

“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that YOU MAY KNOW that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13

There is victory in Jesus!  I thought that might be a nice reminder for you.

Hope you’re having a blessed day!

Dan

P.S.  And I hope to see you at church tomorrow (I’m assuming you might read this on Saturday afternoon/night).  I believe you will be blessed if you come!

*NOTE:  If you would like to have the E-Flash From Dan sent directly to your e-mail, send an e-mail message to:   cog111st@aol.com

and write, “Send me the E-Flash” in the subject field.