By Scott Callaway Folsom
“Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” – Psalm 34:5 (NIV)
In my Memoir, Still, I Will Sing! I shared the story of my Dad who had a radio ministry at the local radio station in Jackson, Ga as part of his pastorate at the First Baptist Church. The name of his radio show was "On the Brighter Side with Don Folsom". Through this broadcast he offered words of encouragement to his listeners and shared the power of positive thinking which can shape a persons attitude and the way they approach life. My Dad had such a positive spirit and optimistic attitude and I am grateful that my approach in life was shaped by his influence and love for me.
What about you? What is your outlook on life? Do you choose to look at the brighter side of life or let negative thoughts bring you down? Have you ever caught yourself spiraling into negative thinking—seeing only what’s going wrong, what you lack, or what could go awry? It’s so easy in today’s world to fixate on all the negative going on around us. But as children of God, we’ve been called to something greater—something brighter.
There’s power in positive thinking, not just because it feels good, but because it reflects the truth of who God is. He is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). When we fix our eyes on Jesus, we’re not ignoring life’s difficulties—we’re acknowledging that the light of His glory outshines every shadow.
Positive thinking grounded in Christ is not wishful thinking. It’s faithful thinking. It’s choosing to see your circumstances through the lens of God’s promises instead of your problems. It’s allowing hope to rise even when your heart is heavy. It’s speaking life when the world shouts fear. It’s remembering that even the darkest night will break into dawn because God is still on the throne.
Paul exhorts us in Philippians 4:8 to think about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—anything excellent or praiseworthy. This isn’t just a list of nice thoughts; it’s a spiritual strategy. When we renew our minds with the truth of who God is and what He’s done, we begin to see life on the brighter side.
Even in seasons of loss, grief, or uncertainty, we can declare, “Still, I will hope.” Not because the path is easy, but because we walk in the light of His presence. His glory surrounds us. His Spirit strengthens us. His promises never fail.
So today, let’s make the choice to live on the brighter side. Let’s reflect the radiance of His love. Let’s think faith-filled thoughts, speak life-giving words, and shine with the joy of the Lord.
Because no matter what the world says—the light wins.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to see with eyes of faith. Teach me to think on things that are true and beautiful. Let your light fill every corner of my heart so that I may reflect your glory in all I do. In dark moments, remind me of your presence and your promises. I choose to live on the brighter side today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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