While the pessimists among us might be tempted to say, like Scrooge, “Bah! Humbug!” All Christians should have a realistic optimism. While we recognize that our circumstances may not always turn out very good in this life, we know that God is still in charge, and He can use even our most discouraging times for His glory or to mold us into His image:
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Rom 8:28-29 ESV)
It is the knowledge that God loves us and is working in our lives that helps us “see the best in all things.” Ultimately, we’ve been promised a “favorable outcome”—an eternity with Him in a new heaven and earth (Rev. 21-22). If we take the time to read Revelation 20, we find assurance that “good ultimately predominates over evil in the world.”
Yes, we admit that we will have hard times, but that is not the end of the Story!
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33 ESV)
The Christian’s optimism isn’t rooted in this world, it’s rooted in eternity and the promises of God, who will never leave us nor forsake us! While the Christian life won’t always be easy, it does have the best possible outcome—an eternity with our Savior!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker
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