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Day 5: The Power of a Positive Attitude and Faith

Scripture: Romans 12:12

Quote: "When we hate our enemies, we are giving them power over us." - Dale Carnegie

When I read this quote above from Dale Carnegie, Matthew 5:44 blows a hole in my brain when it says, “Love your enemies and pray for those who despitefully use and abuse you.”

Not only that, but take a look at what the apostle Paul writes in Romans.

Romans 12:12 says "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer."

I just love how this scripture in Romans gives us the blueprint for life.

There is no doubt you will have enemies in life. I can guarantee that, but the Word of God also gives you the answer to them.

Instead of hating them - love them.

This is a completely counterintuitive approach to the situation.

This is another reminder that the Word of God - WORKS!

It works so well people like Dale Carnegie and others USE IT and profit from it.

Let’s look at Joseph in Genesis 50:20.

Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph maintained his faith in God and a positive attitude.

Joseph could have HATED his brothers, his family, and even Potiphar. But, he didn’t.

He could have. It would have been an easy excuse to make.

He had every right to be angry and offended, and hate - but he didn’t.

Ultimately, God used Joseph's trials to elevate him to a position of power in Egypt, saving countless lives during a severe famine.

What about you?

What if you looked to emulate Joseph's unwavering faith and positive outlook? What would that look like in your life?

Crazy to imagine sometimes.

By focusing on God's purpose for your life and trusting in His plan, you can overcome obstacles and grow as a leader and influencer.

As you get into your day, consider these reflective questions:

How can you cultivate a positive attitude and trust in God's plan during challenging times?

Are there areas in your life where you need to let go of negativity and embrace a more faith-filled perspective?

What activities are creating negativity in your life?

What people in your life generate negativity in your life? How could you respond to them differently?

What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you now about this?

What do you need to let go of?

What or who do you hate that you need to stop and forgive? Maybe you even need to talk with them face to face.

One of the reasons I’m here is to challenge you to think with the end in mind. What is it costing you to not make these changes?

What has to happen for your life to get on track the way you know it should?

Why wait for a catastrophic event to happen? Why not take on this challenge now?

I’m rooting for you and praying with you.

God bless.

Anthony Thompson

If any of this was impactful for you, please let me know. Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram.

If you feel like God is leading you into higher levels of Spirituality, I’d love to challenge you and join my Spiritual Accountability Group, join my email list, or look into 1-1 coaching. You can find more about it at anthonythompson.org