Optimists and pessimists exist in all realms of life, as do realists. Even when it comes to faith, there are those who see the possibilities and those who only see the obstacles.

The story of the twelve spies in Numbers 13 illustrates this reality perfectly. Of the twelve, only Joshua and Caleb saw the possibilities and had the faith to believe that, with God’s help, they could take the land. The other ten only saw the obstacles, therefore letting their pessimism overcome their faith. Joshua and Caleb saw their reward, whereas the mockers and scoffers did not.

As Christians, we are called upon to always be faithfully optimistic. It is not optimism that transcends reality, but optimism that is rooted in faith (Rom. 10:17).

For instance, the Spirit teaches, “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” (2 Cor. 9:6). The faithful optimist will be able to see the reward of a bountiful harvest beyond the labors of an abundant sowing. On the other hand, the pessimist will only see the extensive labor involved in sowing abundantly, never realizing the bountiful harvest.

To illustrate further, faithful optimists will not only believe that God “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us” (Eph. 3:20), but they will see the fruit of their prayers as if it already exists.

The real power of optimism and pessimism is seen in the impact such can have on others. A church full of faithful optimists will get much more accomplished to the glory of God than a church full of “faithful” pessimists.

Are you among the faithful optimists, encouraging others onto victory? Or are you among the pessimists, miring the church in mediocrity? Think about it.