Is faith marked by a positive mental attitude?

In an effort to create an upbeat, optimistic and expectant atmosphere, Christians are sometimes taught to maintain a positive mental attitude.

It is undoubtedly better to be positive, rather than negative. Above all, Christians have hope [Romans 5:1-2].

An unfortunate side-effect of some Christian teaching on positive attitude is that those who are experiencing trying times may become confused about their faith. For troubled believers, the Bible offers words of comfort and encouragement – even to the point of telling them to count it as joy [James 1:2].

What the Bible does not do is to imply that suffering and mental anguish are an indication of lack of faith.

In the Psalms we read that King David did not deny his pain when he was suffering. He did not use positive statements to cover up his torment. He cried out to God [Psalms 6:2-3,6-7].

But, he followed his laments by declaring that he was relying on God to deliver him [Psalms 6:4,8-9].

A positive mental attitude, from a biblical perspective, is not proclaiming what is not so, it is not denying reality, it is not pretence. It plainly states the problem and acknowledges suffering – but it sees the solution in the power and mercy of God.

Salvation comes through faith in Christ. To complain without expressing trust in God indicates lack of faith. Equally, not complaining, but relying on our mental strength and positive affirmations rather than on God, also indicates lack of faith.