In the economical times we are experiencing it doesn’t take much to be negative. Being positive requires action, such as having faith, thinking positive and being determined.

Focusing on the negative can blind us to the blessings we already have. It might not seem like it, but according to the Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Think positive about your situation, pray and trust God and watch things change for you. St. John 5:5-6 states, “And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had now a long time in the case, he said unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?”

Many times we focus on our situation and the negative aspect of it. Here the man’s dilemma was bad, but the fact was it could have been worse. Although the man was infirmed, he could talk and he was mentally alert.

Jesus was moved with compassion and asked the man if he wanted to be healed?

St. John 5:7-9 states, “The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is trouble, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”

Immediately the man had started making excuses, “I have no man to put me in when the water is trouble,” and then “while I am coming, someone steps in front of me.” Jesus didn’t ask him about the negative events or excuses that had taken place, all Jesus wanted to know was “Wilt thou be made whole?”

Jesus then commanded the man to take up his bed and walk. Jesus was telling the man to be positive, have faith and you will be healed. Forget the past, start looking to the future, see yourself walking and being productive.

The Bible said “immediately the man was made whole” and notices he took up his bed and walked. Trouble will come in our lives, but it’s up to us how we react to the trouble. The Bible teaches us in all things to give thanks, good times, bad times and at all times.
One of my favorite characters in the Bible is David. David knew when trouble came in his life to trust in the Lord with all his heart and the Lord would take care of him. There were times David had to encourage himself in the Lord.

I admonish every person who reads this to start encouraging yourself, speak to your situation, put it in God’s hands and believe, and it shall come to pass.

Williams is pastor of Rhema Christian Fellowship church and a member of the United Ministerial Alliance.