Optimism Tip from New Testament Book of James

April 7, 2011 - PRLog -- Tip of the Week:  Read James 1:2-18 to see what the Bible says about OPTIMISTIC STAMINA and ENDURANCE.  

Below, you will find two key sets of Versus from this section of scripture.

New Living Translation

Faith and Endurance

James 1:2-3

   * Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.  For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.

James 1:12

   * God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation.  Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised those who love him.

New International Version

Trials and Temptations

James 1:2-3

   * Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

James 1:12

   * Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Explanation and Interpretation

I quote from two different versions of the Bible because one uses the word “endurance” and the other “perseverance.”  Both terms refer to “sticking it out through tough times.”

How many times have I said regarding “Optimism Stamina” and in my “Thirteen Principles of Optimism” that optimists look forward to the challenges of tough times because they learn they can handle any circumstance if they “stick it out” or “keep persisting,” never giving up.  Further, I have opined that it is easier to raise optimistic children in tough rather that easy times.

I have quoted and paraphrased Norman Vincent Peale author of “The Power of Positive Thinking,” and famous preacher regarding his response to the many that came up to him over and over and asked:

   * “Dr. Peale, Dr. Peale, How do I get rid of my problems.”

His consistent response was:

   * “The day you get rid of your problems is the day you are six feet under.”

Dr. Peale urged his readers and listeners to rejoice in and embrace the problems of life as life giving because the more we learn how to and that we can overcome and solve simple everyday as well as difficult and complex problems of life, the more we gain in self-confidence, self-worth and yes OPTIMISTIC SKILL and STAMINA.

For more OPTIMISM go to: http://www.drrussbuss.com; also check out http://www.optimismtoday.tv

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