Focus on the Positive

It seems there is always a kernel of truth any time someone offers a critical remark.  It may not be true in reality, but it is a reflection of their thoughts and beliefs or they would not have come up with it to say aloud.

I am finding it is better to not even think negative thoughts about another, but just focus on their positive attributes.  It keeps me from inadvertently spouting off something I may regret later.  In truth, most people have enough positive attributes that this is easy.  It is only when they touch our self-worth that we look for a way to discredit them in some way.

I am not about to admit that this has been easy for me, nor am I all that good at it, but I am tapping into God's grace and any other method I have at my disposal to make it a reality.  It is not really all that fun to live life on the outskirts of everything, and until I can see others through God's eyes of unconditional love, I will always be looking for ways to categorize people as those I can trust or not, befriend or not, accept or not, etc.

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.  Philippians 4:8


I think this is one of those verses that has some really great benefits attached when we apply it to our lives.  May you find many excellent and praiseworthy things in your life everyday.