We often find that our mood depends on our circumstances, and that if we could just have a really good day, we’d be a lot happier. Of course, our circumstances will have an effect on how we feel. But we shouldn’t let them dictate our feelings. The thing that can really affect our day, whatever it brings, is our attitude. The Bible says, ‘For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast’ (Proverbs 15:15 NLT). Have a think about the people you know – you could probably split them into positive characters and negative characters. And you’ll probably also find that the positive people don’t necessarily have an easier life that the negative ones. It’s their attitude to situations that makes the difference. Ever come across the book Pollyanna? The title character is an orphan who plays what she calls ‘the glad game’ – whatever situation she’s facing, she looks for something to be glad about in it. When she’s given a bleak, bare room to stay in, she decides to be glad about the view from the window. When she’s punished by being given only bread and milk for a meal, she decides to be glad because she likes them. Her optimistic outlook is infectious, and encourages everyone she knows to look on the bright side too. We have a choice to make about our attitude too. We can choose to let things get us down and focus only on the negative. Or we can decide that we’re going to be like Paul and say ‘I have learned the secret of being content in any situation…I can do all this through him who gives me strength’ (Philippians 4:12-13 NIV).

What Now?

When you wake up each day, make a conscious decision to go about your day with a happy heart and a positive attitude. If tough times do come, remember you’ve got a God who loves you and is there for you.