The Power of Positive Faith by Ps Jim Jung

I was thinking the other day about the difference between “positive thinking” and “faith.” It seems that any discussion about faith usually leads to a conversation about a particular religious belief. Though that usage of the term “faith” is widespread, the actual concept of faith is much broader. The bible tells me that,

“…faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV)

 

Over the years, there has been a tremendous amount of literature and teaching on the power of positive thinking. That type of teaching fits well within a Christian environment that often communicates the importance of seeing things through the eyes of hope. But have we replaced “faith” with “positive thinking”?

 

The biblical position does not fundamentally promote positivity in the face of trouble, but rather encourages the believer to live a life of faith in Christ. Being positive is a by-product of the security sensed when faith is placed into the hands of our Protector. Norman Vincent Peale, in his book The Power of Positive Thinking asks the reader to,

“Formulate and stamp indelibly on your mind a mental picture of yourself as succeeding. Hold this picture tenaciously. Never permit it to fade. Your mind will seek to develop the picture... Do not build up obstacles in your imagination.”

 

I love the idea of being positive; of allowing my mind to assist in seeing something in a better light than it may actually be in. I think that helps us keep perspective and remind ourselves that better days will come. But positive thinking is focused on the issue or problem I am facing whereas faith focuses on the power of my deliverer. The bible says it like this,

“…looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2a NKJV)

 

For Christians, faith is found in Jesus Christ. He is become our Redeemer. He is our Prince of Peace. He is the Healer. The bible asks us to go much further than only applying positive thinking to our circumstances but to,

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean, not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV)