The apostle Paul was an optimist. He saw a silver lining behind every cloud. He stated that he had learned "whatever state I am , to be content" -Phil. 4:11. How Could Paul have this attitude? He wrote that statement while in a Roman prison. The answer lies in what he thought about and filled his mind with. Paul thought oil things just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy (Phil. 3:8). Then he encourages Christians by writing:" thing things which you learned, and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you" (Phil. 3:9). The Christian should be an optimist. There are a number of reasons a Christian should be optimistic.

First, all our fears can be overcome. John said that the victory that overcomes the world is our faith - I John. 5:4. If I have the right kind of faith, I can be optimistic in a pessimistic world.

Second, mistakes can be forgiven. No one is so bad that God will not forgive him. We all make mistakes (Rom. 3:23). Even the apostle Paul made mistakes (I Cor. 9:27).

Third, the great assurance by God we have in this life. Paul made a really optimistic statement when he wrote, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Rom. 8:28).

Fourth, your labor is not in vain in the Lord. When we are trying to reach people with the gospel, our attitude should be ..Never give up, never give up, never give up. Paul admonished Christians to not "lose heart" (Gal. 6:9). Some measure success by numbers. Seed needs to be sown and given time to germinate. We should let God have his time (I Cor.3:6).

Fifth, God has provided us with an all-sufficient guide to follow. This guide is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Ps. 119:105). God has provided us with all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).

Sixth, mail's necessities are promised. Jesus said that if the kingdom of God and righteousness were top priority, God would provide us with the necessities of life (Matt. 6:33). He provides us with many things, however, that are unseen. The spiritual blessings in Eph. 1:3 are items which cannot be seen. They can be experienced, however, by the faithful child of God. Some of these include prayer, fellowship, and giving. From the very beginning, God has provided. He still does today. We can be happy in this life and in the life beyond. God will provide.

Christians should be optimistic for at least the above six reasons. The last reason, however, is the most important. Christians should be optimistic because they are God's people. God is on their side (Rom. 8:31). God has provided a way out of sin. The Christian has sins forgiven. That alone ought to cause optimism , hope, and a brighter tomorrow. Eric