Words Of Life

Proverbs 10:11

The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain. (Proverbs 10:11)

A LOT OF CHRISTIANS HAVE a negative attitude toward positive thinking. Perhaps that’s because self-help advice often suggests that we need only positive thoughts, attitudes, and words to be happy—with no solid beliefs or spiritual depth required. But in the context of a relationship with God, discipleship with his Son, and life in his Spirit, positive thinking is a vital aspect of our spiritual growth. Scripture tells us to think good thoughts (Philippians 4:8), to encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and to rejoice always (1 Thessalonians 5:16; Philippians 4:4). It gives us numerous examples of seeing challenging situations with a positive perspective (Philippians 1:14, 18, 21-23). In fact, many of the psalms are case studies in how to move from an attitude of anxiety and fear to one of praise and faith. We are actually commanded to think positively.

One of the greatest gifts we can give to those around us is to think positively and put those thoughts on display—not in a forced, artificial way, but as part of a normal, natural conversation. We have reasons for our hope, and sometimes we will be asked about them (1 Peter 3:15). Even when we are not, articulating them helps people see the inner workings of a biblically based worldview and an eternal perspective. Our mind-set can be a blessing to those who are wrestling with doubts, fears, anxieties, and disappointments. Your words can be a life-giving fountain.

Cynicism, pessimism, and negativity are not gifts of the Spirit. They do not reflect how God sees things. They do not accurately represent his Kingdom, which is always growing and making things beautiful. Constructive, positive, life-giving words do, and they build up those who hear them with encouragement, affirmation, and insight. They change the environment and offer a taste of another realm. When you express the realities of God’s Kingdom, you invite people into it—even when nothing you say actually issues an invitation. You personify a better way, and many will be inspired to step into it.

{Lord, fill my words with hope, encouragement, love, and insight into what you are doing in this world. Align my perspective with yours, make my life a stream in the fountain of truth, and satisfy the thirst of all who need you. Amen.