3 Ways to Stay Positive as a Christian

The world we live in seems to become increasingly negative by the day. Surrounded by news designed to divide, half-truths of social media, and conversations of complaints, it's easy to fall into the trap of negative thinking.

But don't.

You can avoid the spiral of negativity, and being a Christian only helps.

1. Spend more time praying

Lasting life changes aren't made alone. God is there to make up the difference when you fall short, and changing a negative attitude to positive won't happen overnight. But that's okay. Praying daily and informing God of your desire to change shows Him that you really do want to change. Reach out to Him and He will reach out to you.

While praying, ask the Lord for strength to not conform to the ways of this world. Look for support to live life in the world but not of it. Consistent, sincere prayer shows God that you are ready for change, and soon you will see signs of Him working in your life. 

2. Count your blessings

The mind wants to wander toward the negative; retrain it. Make a consistent effort to list out your blessings, whether in your head, on a notebook, or in your phone, remind yourself daily the positive you have in your life, and before you know it your mind will be retrained to seek out the positive. 

Blessings aren't always miracles. Often times your blessings are the simplest things that add good to your life. No wait at your favorite restaurant? Blessing. The rain stopped and a rainbow appeared? Blessing. Someone complimented your shoes? Blessing.

If I could look into each and every one of your lives, I guarantee that I would be able to find blessings, no matter how big or small. Every day comes with positives, and by consciously being grateful for them, you will not only become positive but stay positive. By being grateful God will show you his hand in everything that happens to you.

3. Go easy on yourself

Give yourself a break! You work hard, you try to do the right thing. Everyone makes mistakes, and that's okay! We learn. The first step to staying positive is loving yourself. No matter the obstacles you are facing, God wants you to succeed. "You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you." Song of Solomon 4:7. Progress is a lifelong quest, and when you remember that God made a perfect you, being positive as a Christian becomes so much easier.