Amberlea Church

Christian Worship, Contemporary Music, Groups for Kids, Youth, Adults

Member of the Presbyterian Church in Canada
1820 Whites Rd, Pickering, Ontario, L1V 1R8
905-839-1383
Church Office: Tue & Thu 9:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Worship: SUN 11:00 a.m.

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How to be optimistic in a topsy-turvy world

October 23, 2025 by Rev. Mona Scrivens

Have you noticed how loud negativity has become lately? Turn on the news—wars, division, outrage, fear. Scroll social media—criticism and anger. It’s exhausting. But as followers of Christ, we don’t have to drown in the noise of negativity. We are called to something higher—hope.

Biblical optimism isn’t pretending everything is fine or ignoring reality. It’s not blind positivity. True optimism is the unwavering belief that our loving God is working in every situation for our future good (Romans 8:28). That means even when life feels heavy—sickness, strained relationships, financial pressure—God is still at work behind the scenes. Nothing is wasted in His hands.

The battle for optimism begins in the mind. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us: “As a person thinks in their heart, so they become.” If our thoughts are filled with fear and worry, our lives will follow. But if we choose to anchor our minds in God’s promises, hope begins to rise.

So how do we stay optimistic in a world gone sideways?

1. Feed Your Faith

Don’t just read scripture—live in it. Let it reshape the way you think. Like Paul in Romans 8, remind yourself:

  • “There is now no condemnation for those in Christ.”

  • “Our present sufferings are not worth comparing to the glory to come.”

  • “The Spirit helps us in our weakness.”

  • “God works all things together for good.”

2. Starve Negativity

Limit the endless news cycle. Step back from toxic voices. Refuse to dwell on worst-case scenarios. Whatever we feed grows—so feed hope.

3. Trust God’s Purpose in Your Pain

You may not like what you’re going through right now—but God is using it to grow you. Today’s struggle is building tomorrow’s strength. Nothing is wasted in the hands of God.

I’m optimistic—not because the world is perfect, but because God is still on the throne. God hasn’t abandoned us. God is working—right now—for your good and His glory.

In a topsy-turvy world, we don’t panic—we trust. We hold onto hope. We choose joy. We walk by faith, not fear. Because we have a BIG God—and with God, all things are possible.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” – Romans 8:28

Stay hopeful. God is working.

October 23, 2025 /Rev. Mona Scrivens
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