There’s a big difference between optimistic thinking and positive thinking. Optimistic thinking (denial) refuses to deal with or admit something is wrong. It refuses to see any outcome but success. Denial is a defense mechanism whereby a person does not acknowledge the problem. On the other hand, positive thinking is realistic. It is the belief that no matter how bad things look, something good will come from the experience. Denial will eventually bring disappointment, but thinking positively is rooted and grounded in hope. For Christians, thinking positively is rooted in the belief that God doesn’t lie. It refuses to believe anything contrary to God’s promises. “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God” (Romans 8:28 GW).

We might say one thing with our mouths, yet our hearts say something different. The mouth may proclaim positive words, but if the heart does not believe them, it is pointless. A denier may say, “My arm is not broken.” But, deep down, his heart and body know from the pain that this affirmation is simply not true. A positive believer would say, “My arm is broken, but I believe God promises to heal me.” We must think with a positive outlook, keeping hope alive and affirming God’s Word.