Toxic Positivity or Joy from the Lord by Mayada Naami
“And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. Everyone will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life.”
(Luke 21:13-19 NIV)
Someone once called my joyful nature “toxic positivity.” I looked it up and it means suppressing your negative emotions or maintaining a positive mindset no matter how difficult the situation is. What they didn’t realize is I am living a life filled with the joy of the Lord. My assured confidence may seem strange to those who live in constant fear and worry. My peace comes from knowing I am His and I am loved. I look to Him for all matters concerning my life. Those who are not walking with the Lord may not understand or like my joyful attitude. They live in darkness and darkness does not like light. Followers of Jesus reflect His light and those that do not follow Him do not understand the peace that happens by being a follower of Christ. Peace and joy on earth comes when you surrender everything to Him, knowing that your eternal gifts are worth more than anything this world can offer.
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
(Philippians 4:5–6 NIV)
I’ve been mistaken for an avoidant when I look at the positive in every situation. The reason I stay positive is because I know with a confidence that surpasses all understanding that God works ALL things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). I love Him and am called to live with purpose—His purpose, and this makes me confident in every situation; good or bad. Those that live in darkness may resent me when they see the joy that is within me. Jesus says in Luke 21:17, “Everyone will hate you because of me.” One of the most powerful ways to find joy in the Lord is through prayer and worship. As we praise Him in worship our hearts are filled with joy and peace. As you worship, ask God to fill you with His Spirit so by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
(John 15:18–19 NIV)