Optimism

Earlier this week I had a coaching session with Oscar’s Occupational Therapist. It was a time to look at all aspects of Oscar’s life and how he was doing in his abilities, in home life and preschool. For each category I had to give a rating out of 10 on how I perceived how he was going. And being honest, in many ways it highlighted the gap from where he is to where he needs to be and an overwhelming feeling of all we need to work on.

And then we came to the last segment. His future. How did I view it and what rating could I give it? Based on the previous categories a low rating could easily be anticipated. But I gave it a high number. As I gave my answer, I explained, it’s because I have hope. Hope that Oscar will continue to develop and thrive. I am optimistic that his future will be good.

Craig Groeschel said this “optimism isn’t a state of affairs. It’s a state of mind. Optimism is the unwavering expectation that our loving God is working in every situation for our future good.”

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

My picture of Oscar’s future is good, because God is in it. Yes, Oscar and I (and his team of therapists) will continue to work hard. But my optimism is not just about what we can achieve ourselves but it is about my trust in God. It is the presence of God in his life that gives me hope and is the source of my optimism.

“There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” (Proverbs 23:18)

Oscar, God’s got this and He’s got you!