Facing Hard Times With Brutal Optimism

by Rod Hall

When we face hard times, it is easy to focus on our problems to the point that we become discouraged. As our world faces an economic downturn, higher unemployment and uncertain times, we may have to adjust our lifestyle to the new realities. But by looking at our current circumstances in a positive manner, problems or setbacks can be opportunities to develop godly character (Romans 5:3-4).

During the darkest days of World War II, then British Prime Minister Winston Churchill faced traumatic times due to Nazi Germany's aggression. Yet he was able to rally the British people to become optimistic, develop their resources and focus on their goals.

The curmudgeonly, tough-minded, 65-year-old politician did not put on a false smile or talk unrealistically about the battles that lay before them. In his first address to the House of Commons on a Sunday night in May of 1940, he declared: "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat." Yet laced with his blunt realism was an undaunted optimistic spirit and belief that the ill-equipped British nation would be victorious.

He closed his speech by focusing on one goal. "You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word: victory. Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory however long and hard the road may be; for without victory, there is no survival" (William Manchester, The Last Lion, p. 678).

Someone once expressed the importance of focusing on what we have instead of what we do not have. "As you travel through life's highway, may it ever be your goal; to keep your eye upon the doughnut, and not upon the hole!"

The apostle Paul instructed: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Let's focus on the goals, opportunities and blessings we have rather than on the "holes." UN