And the truest God-birthed vision always begins with a burden.
One of my favorite Old Testament narratives is the story of Nehemiah. In chapter 1:3-4 it says that he wept because the wall of Jerusalem was broken down, and those who survived the exile were in great trouble and disgrace. He was burdened for the people! Then in chapter 2:1-5, Nehemiah’s vision was clear, rebuild the wall!
Nehemiah knew exactly what he was to do and had the passion to do it. That’s how he kept going through all the problems he faced. That’s how he held onto hope. He had a positive hope-filled picture of the future and was focused on its completion.
3. Keep the Best Interest of the People You Serve at the Forefront.
When you are for the people you lead and serve, and want the best for them, that pulls you and them forward to a hopeful future.
If you continue to read Nehemiah’s story, it is clear that he fought for the people, their best interests and welfare. (They needed more grain and were over-taxed by the King. The were mortgaging their fields, vineyards and homes during the famine. They felt powerless and Nehemiah stepped up on their behalf!) (Nehemiah 5:1-12)
The majority of our attention is directed to the spiritual growth and welfare of those we serve, but we also have opportunities to influence physical and emotional needs as well. The point is that the more we can truly help people and see positive change, the greater hope we have to continue that process for a better future.
Starting small and remaining consistent leads to better and better outcomes.
4. Fill Your Mind With Uplifting Content.
What you fill your mind with is what directs the paths you take, and if not always your path, certainly the amount of steps you take forward…or backward.
Part of the equation is what to avoid, like toxic people and inappropriate or negative places on the internet, but our focus has to be on pursuing the best possible input. This will always strengthen your optimistic outlook and how you perceive what the future holds.
This list isn’t new, but it’s about what you consistently practice.
- Humor and laughter. It’s good for the soul.
- Choosing how you think and process thoughts, choose to focus on the good.
- Positive and truthful conversations. (Some can be hard, but the goal is healthy outcomes.)
- Good music, including worship.
- Meditating on scripture is already mentioned in the introduction of this post, but let me include another of my favorites.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)
5. Cultivate a Strong and Wise Inner Circle.
Those closest to you will determine in large part who you become as well as how you see and experience the world.
