“Joy and optimism are closely connected because when we find joy in the Lord, we have a deep-seated belief that God is working all things together for good. This confidence powers us to approach life with optimism, knowing that no matter what challenges we face, God is sovereign and His love for us never fails. As 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, 'Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.'"
That's what Dean Troth told me when I asked him for his insight into the connection between joy and optimism as we at The Centre for Optimism are collaborating with The Art and Science of Joy to celebrate their Year of Joy.
Baptist theologian and Pastor John Piper wrote, "True joy is not based on external circumstances, but on an inward confidence in God's sovereign control and loving purposes. Optimism, then, is not mere positive thinking, but a deep-seated belief that God is working all things together for good for those who love Him."
And, as the author, speaker and pastor Max Lucado put it: "Optimism is not the belief that things will turn out well, but the confidence that what we do matters, regardless of how the world may turn."