The Importance of Positive Attitude 
by Dr. Gary Chapman

The challenge of keeping a positive attitude is not a new idea.  It is found clearly in the first-century writing of Paul the apostle.  He wrote:  

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds. ...Whatever is true,  noble,  right,  pure,  lovely, or admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Phil 4:4-7. 

We are responsible for the way we think.  Even in the worst marital situation we choose our attitude.  Maintaining a positive attitude requires prayer.  Paul said, bring your requests to God.  Tell him what you want. Will God always do what we ask?  No, but what does happen is that "the peace of God" descends on our emotions and our thoughts.  God calms our emotions and directs our thoughts.   

With a positive attitude, we become a part of the solution, rather than a part of the problem.  

Article written by Dr. Gary Chapman.  Based on the book, Desperate Marriages by Dr. Gary Chapman. Published by Moody Publishing.  For a complete listing of Dr. Chapman's books and resources, click here.     

The "collisions" of marriage can create relationships of beauty.  Beauty is often birthed in struggle.  These points of impact may not be "fun" - in fact, they can make us feel like we're being ripped apart - but the process can make us stronger, build our character, and deepen our faith.

Suffering is a part of the Christian life, modeled by Jesus Christ himself, who suffered immeasurably in his service to God.  And yet most of those who leave marriage and break its sacred history do so precisely because it's tough.  Few people leave a marriage because it's too easy!   

This tendancy to avoid difficulty is a grave spiritual failing that can and often does keep us in Christian infancy. 

Jesus promised us that everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt (Mk 9:49 NJKV).  The desire for ease, comfort, and stress-free living is an indirect desire to remain an "unseasoned," immature Christian.   

Struggle makes us stronger; it builds us up and deepens our faith.  

If your marriage is tough, get down on your knees and thank God that He has given you an opportunity for unparalleled spiritual growth.  You have the prime potential to excel in Christian character and obedience.