Hope grows from optimism.
What’s optimism?
The concept of the word optimism is found in the Latin word “optimum” meaning best. Those who are optimistic expect the best possible outcome from a situation.
It’s about looking forward.
Psychologists have spent years studying optimism to determine whether optimism is an inheritable trait, or a trait which shows up because of environment. And as in many areas, social scientists can’t decide for one theory or the other. (One book I’ve enjoyed in this area is “Breaking Murphy’s Law” )
But don’t worry.
Whether you believe you’re an optimist or not, as Christians we can look at optimism with an added view.
Hope grows while looking forward and knowing the future has possibility – not because of an individual’s strength, or environment but because the God of Hope (Romans 15:13) has all things in His hand. ALL things.
And what does hope have to do with encouragement?
Hope is a first line defense and a tool in your arsenal to add courage into your spouse. The word courage and encourage have their roots in the Latin word, “cor” which means heart.
You’re speaking HOPE to the heart when you encourage.
Inspiring with Hope isn’t the only way to encourage your spouse – there are four other aspects to encouragement:
- Fortifying with Faith,
- Fostering with Love,
- Uplifting with Prayer,
- and Supporting with Action.
They’re all intertwined and aspects of each are unique yet repeated.
Which words of HOPE will you speak into your spouse’s heart today?
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in Him,
so that you may overflow with hope
by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
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Thanks this was encouraging !! GREAT image too! I think I might check out that book, “Breaking Murphy’s Law.”
Hey Robyn – thanks for dropping in… enjoy the book! (you could always try the library first… ?) 😉
Earlier in life, I was always embarrassed to say I was an optimist. I wanted to be taken seriously (especially, in business) and didn’t think that jived well with admitting I’m an optimist. But thank God I am! What do I not have to be optimistic about? I have a personal relationship with the King of kings and the most wonderful husband any woman could ask for. Add a fabulous family on top of that and my wonderful friends who are the cherry on top. I’d be crazy to be anything but optimistic and hopeful and I pray all those who come in contact with me on a day-to-day basis see that radiate in me.
Hi Fawn – Glad to know you’re an optimist (but I’m not surprised, either! LOL)
Robert and I have had long conversations about being a realist as opposed to a pessimist. I contend that a pessimist by any other name is still a pessimist! (he disagrees)
What an interesting challenge! Let me see…. My husband is a very effective and dedicated employee! He needs to make important decisions everyday and loves to bounce his thoughts of me. He appreciates ears to listen and good well-thought suggestions. So today I truly want to listen with my whole heart, telling him with silent words that he is my hero! Visiting via Thriving Thursdays.
Love and blessings to you
Mia
Thanks for sharing, Mia! So happy to “meet” your hubby! What a blessing that he can bounce ideas and thoughts around with you and his team-mate in marriage and life! Happy to connect!