Where We Place Our Focus Matters

Several weeks ago I went into the grocery store, and went to grab the one and only available shopping cart. Behind me an elderly couple came into the store, but stopped abruptly when they saw there were no other carts. I pushed the cart toward them and told them they could have it. They hesitated and asked if I was sure. I told them that I wasn’t getting much, so I could use a basket. They thanked me and we went on our way.

Not long after that, I came out of the store and there was a little boy that looked scared to talk to me. But he asked me if I wanted to buy something he was selling. He was soft spoken, so I couldn’t hear all that he said, and I don’t even know what he was selling. Unfortunately, though, I wasn’t able to help and I told him I didn’t have cash. As I walked away I felt terrible for not supporting him, and I prayed that there were other grocery shoppers who would be able to help him. That boy crossed my mind for days, as I wished I had been able to donate to his cause.

A few days later, for some reason I remembered the shopping cart incident. And then it struck me – why did I keep thinking about the negative experience, and I had forgotten all about the positive experience?

But it’s not just me. Studies show that people retain negative experiences more so than positive ones.

However, we can train our brains to focus on the positive things in life more than the negative. It takes time and patience, but it’s worth the effort.

And the Bible even tells us to focus on the good. Paul wrote, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8 KJV).

Focusing our thoughts on positive things isn’t naive, a waste of time, or wishful thinking. We have heard how staying positive is better for our health and well-being. However, as Christians, it goes deeper than that. When we keep our mind on the good things in life, on God Almighty, on gratitude and praise – we are walking in faith.

Negative situations will come in life, and we will often have things to worry about. But when we stay optimistic, we are showing God that we trust in Him. Even in the midst of a difficult time, we believe that God’s promises are true. We believe He is there and He is working everything out.

The truth is that God is on our side (see Psalm 56:9). And He does work things together for good (see Romans 8:28). So we can either walk like we believe it, or we can spend our days stressed out.

When we stand firmly on truth, we are drawing near to God. This also sends the enemy running. It says in James 4:7 (KJV), “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

When we keep our focus on the positive, we are proclaiming that we trust in The God of the universe. No matter what comes our way, we can stay in peace and keep an optimistic mindset because we know our Heavenly Father is there for us. As His children, He wants only what’s best for us.

Pray with me: Dear Heavenly Father, I’m sorry that I tend to focus on the negative things in life. I know you want your children to have the abundant life (John 10:10), and we can’t do that when our focus is in the wrong place. I want to be strong in my faith. Please help me to push aside the negative. Help me to stay positive, focusing on Your goodness in my life. Thank You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

© 2018-2026 Bridget A. Thomas. All rights reserved.